noun

rules

rules, regulations, principles, laws

You must follow the rules.

You must follow the rules.

What are the rules of the game?

What are the rules of the game?

((the rules of sth.)) the regulations governing (sth.) What are the rules of the game?

((to follow the rules)) to obey the regulations You must follow the rules.

Synonyms: regulations, laws, principles, guidelines

From Latin 'regula' meaning 'straight stick, ruler', hence something that guides.

Think of a school 'ruler' for drawing straight lines. 'Rules' are like straight lines for behavior that you must follow.

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