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
Laws can be passed, but that doesn't mean everyone plays by the rules, according to Will Maxson, an assistant director with the FTC's division of marketing practices.
—
Erin Couch, The Enquirer, 14 Oct. 2024
If a Floridian is convicted of a felony in another state, their right to vote is determined by the rules in the state where they were convicted.
—Rachel Barber, USA TODAY, 2 July 2024
Any competitor who plays by the rules, the DOJ claims, is at a distinct disadvantage.
—Brian Barrett, WIRED, 23 Aug. 2024
The video shows the inquiry was filed within 47 seconds after Chiles’ score was published, therefore abiding by the rules.
—Regina Cho, VIBE.com, 12 Aug. 2024
See all Example Sentences for by the rules 
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Erin Couch, The Enquirer, 14 Oct. 2024
If a Floridian is convicted of a felony in another state, their right to vote is determined by the rules in the state where they were convicted.
—Rachel Barber, USA TODAY, 2 July 2024
Any competitor who plays by the rules, the DOJ claims, is at a distinct disadvantage.
—Brian Barrett, WIRED, 23 Aug. 2024
The video shows the inquiry was filed within 47 seconds after Chiles’ score was published, therefore abiding by the rules.
—Regina Cho, VIBE.com, 12 Aug. 2024
See all Example Sentences for by the rules
Dictionary Entries Near by the rules
Cite this Entry
“By the rules.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/by%20the%20rules. Accessed 19 Nov. 2024.
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