rule of law
noun phrase
: a situation in which the laws of a country are obeyed by everyone
The courts uphold the rule of law.
Examples of rule of law in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Undoubtedly, the rule of law and democracy have broken down in Venezuela and the people of that country deserve better.
—
Mark Prussin, CBS News, 4 Jan. 2026
Freedom and rule of law were defended last night, but dictators will try to exploit this to rationalize their selfish objectives.
—Rachel Scott, ABC News, 3 Jan. 2026
Pineyro added that, in his role as a Doral councilman, the city stands in solidarity with Venezuela and all those continuing to fight for freedom and the rule of law.
—Milena Malaver, Miami Herald, 3 Jan. 2026
Bolsonaro was also convicted on charges that include leading an armed criminal organization and attempting the violent abolition of the democratic rule of law.
—Los Angeles Times, 1 Jan. 2026
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Mark Prussin, CBS News, 4 Jan. 2026
Freedom and rule of law were defended last night, but dictators will try to exploit this to rationalize their selfish objectives.
—Rachel Scott, ABC News, 3 Jan. 2026
Pineyro added that, in his role as a Doral councilman, the city stands in solidarity with Venezuela and all those continuing to fight for freedom and the rule of law.
—Milena Malaver, Miami Herald, 3 Jan. 2026
Bolsonaro was also convicted on charges that include leading an armed criminal organization and attempting the violent abolition of the democratic rule of law.
—Los Angeles Times, 1 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for rule of law
Cite this Entry
“Rule of law.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rule%20of%20law. Accessed 5 Jan. 2026.
Copy CitationLegal Definition
rule of law
1
: an authoritative legal doctrine, principle, or precept applied to the facts of an appropriate case
adopting the rule of law that is most persuasive in light of precedent, reason and policy—Wright v. Wright, 904 P.2d 403 (1995)
Wright v. Wright, 904 P.2d 403 (1995)2
: government by law : adherence to due process of law
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