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follow the rules
/ˈfɒloʊ ðə ruːlz/
obey regulations
In school, students must follow the rules to maintain order.
Students obey the regulations to keep the environment orderly.
formal
To comply with established guidelines or regulations
Drivers must follow the rules of the road to avoid accidents.
Drivers must obey traffic laws to prevent collisions.
Common in formal and informal contexts, emphasizing compliance with authority or social norms.
Collocations
follow the rules strictlyadhere to regulations preciselyfollow the rules of the gameabide by sports regulations
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Formal vs. Informal Use
In formal settings, 'follow the rules' emphasizes compliance with authority, while in informal contexts, it may refer to social norms.
Gold Rule
Context Matters
The phrase can apply to laws, sports, or social etiquette, so adjust tone accordingly.
Word Origin
Derived from the verb 'follow' (to go after) and 'rules' (established guidelines), emphasizing compliance.
Usage Notes
Used in both formal and informal contexts, often in education, sports, and legal settings.
Word Breakdown
follow
to go after or comply with
verbthe rules
established guidelines or regulations
noun phraseEnglish Dictionary