Laws
lɔːz
Definitions
2 meaningsA system of rules that a particular country or community recognizes as regulating the actions of its members and may enforce by the imposition of penalties.
lɔːz
Rules established by a governing authority.
The government passed new laws to address climate change.
💡 Simply: Laws are like the rules of a game, but for a whole country or community! They tell us what we can and can't do, and help keep everyone safe and fair. Like, it's a law to wear a seatbelt in the car.
👶 For kids: Laws are the rules that grown-ups make to keep everyone safe and happy.
More Examples
Breaking the law can result in serious consequences.
She studied constitutional law at university.
How It's Used
"The laws of the land protect citizens' rights."
"New laws are often debated in parliament."
"Society functions smoothly when people respect the laws."
A statement describing a relationship that is always the same under the same conditions.
lɔːz
A statement of fact, deduced from observation, that expresses a regular or constant relationship between two or more variables.
The laws of physics explain how the universe functions.
💡 Simply: Sometimes, "laws" aren't just about rules for people. They can also be like super-reliable facts about how the world works. Like, the law of gravity always makes things fall down!
👶 For kids: Sometimes, "laws" are like rules that tell us how things happen in the world. Like, everything falls down!
More Examples
Einstein's theory of relativity challenged established laws.
Scientific laws are constantly tested and refined.
How It's Used
"Newton's laws of motion describe how objects move."
"The laws of thermodynamics govern energy transfer."
"Mathematical laws underpin scientific principles."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
the law of averages
The principle that results will tend to even out in the long run.
"Even though I lost the first few games, the law of averages tells me I'll win some eventually."
lay down the law
To state the rules or expectations in a clear and forceful way.
"The boss laid down the law about punctuality."
against the law
Contrary to the law; illegal.
"Stealing is against the law."
From Old English lagu, plural of *lagu* 'law, rule' (akin to Old Norse lǫg 'law', German Gesetz). Originally referring to a body of rules, it expanded to include specific rules and regulations.
The word 'law' has existed in the English language for over a thousand years, evolving from Old English and referring to concepts of order and justice.
Memory tip
Think of the scales of justice – laws are what balance society and bring order.
Word Origin
"rule, regulation"