noun phrase · academic
rule of law
/ruːl əv lɔː/rule of LAW
the principle that all individuals and institutions are subject to and accountable under the law
Examples
“Independent courts are essential to maintain the rule of law.”
“International organisations monitor whether countries respect the rule of law.”
“A strong rule of law attracts foreign investment by reducing legal uncertainty.”
Band 8 sentence
“International investors are reassured by a transparent judiciary and a consistent rule of law.”
Collocations
- uphold the rule of law
- rule of law principles
- strengthen the rule of law
Word family
Common mistakes
We must respect rule of law.→We must respect the rule of law.
Rule of laws means many laws.→Rule of law means that law applies to everyone.
Say it for a higher band
5law and order→6legal equality→7+rule of law
Synonyms
legal equality
Easily confused
rule by law
“Some regimes claim to follow the law, but in practice they exercise rule by law rather than the rule of law.”
Related words
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In Society & Government
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