rule of law

American  

noun

1. the principle that all people and institutions are subject to and accountable to law that is fairly applied and enforced; the principle of government by law.

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Usage

What is the rule of law? The rule of law refers to the idea that everyone in a society agrees to be governed by and follow the laws of a society.

Etymology

Origin of rule of law

First recorded in 1500–10

Example Sentences

The EU text also says an important “element” of the loan is “Ukraine continuing to uphold the rule of law, including the fight against corruption.”

From The Wall Street Journal

“The operation reinforces Home Affairs’ commitment to enforcing the rule of law without fear or favor,” Carli van Wyk, a spokeswoman for the Department of Home Affairs, said.

From The Wall Street Journal

Calling for his release through pressure is an insult both to the rule of law and diplomacy.

From The Wall Street Journal

These values, he added, include the "rule of law, freedom, pursuit of democracy, freedom of speech, freedom of religion, freedom of assembly".

From BBC

He’ll have to balance the rule of law with the country’s demand for workers.

From The Wall Street Journal