ignore the rules

/ɪˈɡnɔːr ðə ruːlz/
phraseIntermediate disregard established guidelines
informal

To deliberately choose not to follow or adhere to established guidelines, regulations, or norms.

The artist ignored the rules of composition and created an abstract masterpiece.

The artist disregarded traditional guidelines for composition and produced an abstract work of art.

In creative fields, sometimes you have to ignore the rules to innovate.

In creative industries, breaking away from conventional norms can lead to innovation.

💡

This phrase is often used to describe acts of rebellion, creativity, or nonconformity. It can be positive (innovation) or negative (disobedience) depending on context.

Related Phrases

bend the rulesphrase
to slightly deviate from the rules
break the rulesphrase
to violate the rules

💡Pro Tip

Context Matters

The phrase can be used in both positive and negative contexts. In creative fields, it often implies innovation, while in formal settings, it may imply disobedience.

Gold Rule

Use Appropriately

Be mindful of the context when using this phrase, as it can imply rebellion or creativity depending on the situation.

📖Word Origin

The phrase combines the verb 'ignore' (from Latin 'ignorare', meaning 'to be ignorant of') and the noun 'rules' (from Latin 'regula', meaning 'straight stick used for measuring'). Together, it means to deliberately overlook or disregard established guidelines.

📝Usage Notes

This phrase is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts, often to describe acts of rebellion, creativity, or nonconformity. It can carry positive or negative connotations depending on the situation.

Word Breakdown

ignore
to deliberately overlook or disregard
verb
+
the rules
established guidelines or regulations
noun phrase
English Dictionary