Synonyms for

Law

Verb / lɔ: / / lɑ: / Another word for law — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

A set of rules that a country or community recognizes as regulating the actions of its members and may enforce by the imposition of penalties.

Synonyms & similar words

practiceoflaw naturallaw lawofnature police policeforce jurisprudence legalphilosophy constabulary regulation rule statute ordinance decree act enactment order command directive requirement precept edict canon constitution charter mandate pronouncement dictate prescription

Synonyms by register

Formal

statute legislation ordinance regulation

Informal

rule code system

Literary

decree edict covenant

Antonyms

anarchy chaos disorder lawlessness unruliness

Common collocations

  • break the law
  • obey the law
  • rule of law
  • due process of law
  • international law
  • criminal law
  • constitutional law
  • common law

Word family

noun law
verb legalize
adjective legal
adverb legally

Usage note

While 'law' can refer to a specific statute, it often refers to the system of rules in general. Be mindful of the context when choosing synonyms.

Example sentences

  1. The law says you have to pay taxes.
  2. It's against the law to steal.
  3. The police officer enforces the law.
  4. A lawyer is someone who works with the law.
  5. There are many different kinds of laws.

Quotes

  • Laws are like cobwebs, which may catch small flies, but let wasps and hornets break through. - Jonathan Swift
  • Where there is no law, there is no freedom. - John Locke
  • The law is reason, free from passion. - Aristotle

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