by the rules

idiom

: in the way that is most common, expected, and acceptable

After years of boredom, he grew tired of living by the rules.

She has always played by the rules throughout her career.

Examples of by the rules in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

By Jason Fields Newsweek Deputy Opinion Editor 98 The current definition of a Democrat is someone who plays nice—by the rules—regardless of the bully kicking sand in his, her or their face. —

Mark R. Weaver, Newsweek, 3 Dec. 2024 Some stadiums have a clear bag policy, but this Jelly Tabby makes abiding by the rules incredibly chic. —

Robyn Merrett, StyleCaster, 8 Oct. 2024 The government argues that Mr. Khan is sowing chaos through protests and insists the charges are legitimate, framing him as someone who refuses to play by the rules. —

Salman Masood, New York Times, 25 Nov. 2024 Reviving a watch brand based on nostalgia and retro-style doesn’t necessarily mean that the company has to play by the rules of the back catalog only. —

Allen Farmelo, Robb Report, 21 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for by the rules

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“By the rules.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/by%20the%20rules. Accessed 22 Dec. 2024.

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