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

Ann Dowd’s Aunt Lydia, for example, is still trying to play by the rules while simultaneously protecting her Handmaids from the horrors that she’s become more and more sensitive to over the last few seasons. —Katie Campione, Deadline, 8 Apr. 2025

Former University of Pennsylvania swimmer Lia Thomas – one of the most prominent trans athletes in college sports – has been barred from international events by the rules of World Aquatics, which only qualifies transgender athletes who have not experienced biological puberty. —Andy Rose, CNN Money, 4 Apr. 2025

Guarino said the tariffs hurt businesses that play by the rules, extending the advantage that the illicit market already has. —James Barron, New York Times, 25 Mar. 2025

They are just not convinced that playing by the rules will work. —Dr. Diane Hamilton, Forbes.com, 3 Apr. 2025

Rhymes for by the rules

• animalcules
• ampoules
• cesspools
• chondrules
• ferrules
• lobules
• macules
• preschools
• pustules
• spherules
• toadstools
• whirlpools