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Synonyms

Rules

British  
/ ruːlz /

plural noun

  1. short for Australian Rules

  2. English history the neighbourhood around certain prisons (esp the Fleet and King's Bench prison) in which trusted prisoners were allowed to live under specified restrictions

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Rules, regulations, paperwork, escrow practices, fees, taxes and inheritance laws can differ wildly depending on the country and even the region.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 24, 2026

She made her Broadway debut in 1974, appearing in brief productions of “Love for Love” and “The Rules of the Game.”

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 30, 2026

Rules specifying the size and number of heat pumps which households can install have also been relaxed.

From BBC • Mar. 24, 2026

Rules of engagement are typically in place to avoid unnecessary civilian casualties, abide by international law, and prevent friendly-fire incidents.

From Salon • Mar. 14, 2026

That was Rules and Things Number 36, or something, that meant I was going to have to get ready to go fetch something for her.

From "Bud, Not Buddy" by Christopher Paul Curtis

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