law
A system of rules created by a government to guide people's behavior in a society. These rules are enforced by institutions like the police and courts, and there are consequences if they are broken.
Examples
3 of 5You must obey the law when driving a car.
You must obey the law when driving a car.
The new law was passed by parliament yesterday afternoon.
The new law was passed by parliament yesterday afternoon.
Don't worry, it's not against the law to park your bike here.
Don't worry, it's not against the law to park your bike here.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Word Family
Memory Tip
L-A-W: Legal Acts Work to keep us safe.
Quick Quiz
It is against the ____ to drive a car without a valid license.
Correct!
The correct answer is: law
Examples
You must obey the law when driving a car.
everydayYou must obey the law when driving a car.
The new law was passed by parliament yesterday afternoon.
formalThe new law was passed by parliament yesterday afternoon.
Don't worry, it's not against the law to park your bike here.
informalDon't worry, it's not against the law to park your bike here.
Scholars often analyze how a law impacts social behavior.
academicScholars often analyze how a law impacts social behavior.
The firm must comply with international employment law.
businessThe firm must comply with international employment law.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Word Family
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
against the law
against the law
the long arm of the law
the long arm of the law
take the law into one's own hands
take the law into one's own hands
Often Confused With
Laws are official government regulations, while rules are less formal and can apply to games or schools.
A right is a freedom you have, whereas a law is an obligation you must follow.
Usage Notes
When referring to the academic subject or the system as a whole, it is often used without an article (e.g., 'to study law'). When referring to a specific regulation, use 'a law' or 'the law'.
Common Mistakes
Learners often say 'make a law' when 'pass a law' is more common in professional contexts. They also sometimes confuse 'legal' (adjective) with 'law' (noun).
Memory Tip
L-A-W: Legal Acts Work to keep us safe.
Word Origin
Derived from the Old Norse word 'lag', meaning something laid down or fixed.
Grammar Patterns
Cultural Context
In many English-speaking countries, the concept of 'the rule of law' implies that no one, including government officials, is above the law.
Quick Quiz
It is against the ____ to drive a car without a valid license.
Correct!
The correct answer is: law
Related Grammar Rules
Related Phrases
Related Vocabulary
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