Thesaurus results for ORDINANCE

Q: How is the word 'ordinance' distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of ordinance are canon , law , precept , regulation , rule , and statute . While all these words mean "a principle governing action or procedure," ordinance applies to an order governing some detail of procedure or conduct enforced by a limited authority such as a municipality. // a city ordinance

Q: When can 'canon' be used instead of 'ordinance'?

The words canon and ordinance can be used in similar contexts, but canon suggests in nonreligious use a principle or rule of behavior or procedure commonly accepted as a valid guide. // the canons of good taste

Q: In what contexts can 'law' take the place of 'ordinance'?

The meanings of law and ordinance largely overlap; however, law implies imposition by a sovereign authority and the obligation of obedience on the part of all subject to that authority. // obey the law

Q: When is 'precept' a more appropriate choice than 'ordinance'?

While in some cases nearly identical to ordinance , precept commonly suggests something advisory and not obligatory communicated typically through teaching. // the precepts of effective writing

Q: Where would 'regulation' be a reasonable alternative to 'ordinance'?

While the synonyms regulation and ordinance are close in meaning, regulation implies prescription by authority in order to control an organization or system. // regulations affecting nuclear power plants

Q: When might 'rule' be a better fit than 'ordinance'?

The synonyms rule and ordinance are sometimes interchangeable, but rule applies to more restricted or specific situations. // the rules of the game

Q: When could 'statute' be used to replace 'ordinance'?

The words statute and ordinance are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, statute implies a law enacted by a legislative body. // a statute requiring the use of seat belts

ordinance

noun

ˈȯr-də-nən(t)s

Definition of ordinance next

as in law

a rule of conduct or action laid down by a governing authority and especially a legislature a local ordinance forbids all street parking during snowstorms

Synonyms & Similar Words

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How is the word ordinance distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of ordinance are canon, law, precept, regulation, rule, and statute. While all these words mean "a principle governing action or procedure," ordinance applies to an order governing some detail of procedure or conduct enforced by a limited authority such as a municipality.

a city ordinance

When can canon be used instead of ordinance?

The words canon and ordinance can be used in similar contexts, but canon suggests in nonreligious use a principle or rule of behavior or procedure commonly accepted as a valid guide.

the canons of good taste

In what contexts can law take the place of ordinance?

The meanings of law and ordinance largely overlap; however, law implies imposition by a sovereign authority and the obligation of obedience on the part of all subject to that authority.

obey the law

When is precept a more appropriate choice than ordinance?

While in some cases nearly identical to ordinance, precept commonly suggests something advisory and not obligatory communicated typically through teaching.

the precepts of effective writing

Where would regulation be a reasonable alternative to ordinance?

While the synonyms regulation and ordinance are close in meaning, regulation implies prescription by authority in order to control an organization or system.

regulations affecting nuclear power plants

When might rule be a better fit than ordinance?

The synonyms rule and ordinance are sometimes interchangeable, but rule applies to more restricted or specific situations.

the rules of the game

When could statute be used to replace ordinance?

The words statute and ordinance are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, statute implies a law enacted by a legislative body.

a statute requiring the use of seat belts

Example Sentences

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.

Recent Examples of ordinance Communities have until June 2 to pass local ordinances confirming their participation. —

David Condos, NPR, 19 May 2026 The ordinance sponsors, council members Paul Kashmann, Darrell Watson and Serena Gonzales-Gutierrez, are in the process of hiring a facilitator for that group’s work. —

Elliott Wenzler, Denver Post, 19 May 2026 Details of the retirement program may be established by ordinance. —

Tom Ignudo, CBS News, 19 May 2026 Before starting this project, check with your local authorities, as building codes and ordinances vary by location. —

Hiranmayi Srinivasan, Better Homes & Gardens, 17 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for ordinance

Recent Examples of Synonyms for ordinance

Noun

Under Louisiana law, if no candidate clears the 50% threshold the top two finishers run again in a June 27 runoff.

— Phillip M. Bailey, USA Today, 17 May 2026
Passed in the final days of session and signed into law by Lamont earlier this week, the bill was praised as a massive victory for the state’s labor community and has been strongly embraced by unions and workers advocacy groups.

— P.R. Lockhart, Hartford Courant, 17 May 2026

Definition of law

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orders

ordinance

ordinances

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“Ordinance.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/ordinance. Accessed 23 May. 2026.

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Synonyms of ordinance

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