Regulation

ˌreɡjəˈleɪʃən

nounmediumVery CommonGeneral

Definitions

2 meanings
1

A rule or directive made and maintained by an authority.

ˌreɡjəˈleɪʃən

nounneutralmedium
General

The government is implementing new regulations on the use of plastic bags.

💡 Simply: Imagine your school has rules, like no running in the hallways. Those rules are regulations! They're set to keep things safe and organized.

👶 For kids: Rules made by grown-ups or the government to keep things fair and safe.

More Examples

2

Health and safety regulations must be strictly adhered to in the workplace.

3

The airline is facing scrutiny for not following the international air traffic regulations.

How It's Used

Legal

"The new financial regulations aim to prevent future economic crises."

Business

"Companies must comply with environmental regulations to operate."

2

The act of controlling or directing something according to a rule or principle.

ˌreɡjəˈleɪʃən

nounneutralAdvanced
General

The regulation of the economy is a complex task.

💡 Simply: Think about a thermostat. It *regulates* the temperature of your room. It's about keeping things in balance.

👶 For kids: Making sure something works right, like making sure the water in your bath isn't too hot.

More Examples

2

The government plays a vital role in the regulation of public utilities.

3

Effective temperature regulation is critical in many industries.

How It's Used

Science

"The regulation of body temperature is crucial for survival."

Engineering

"Precise regulation of the engine speed is essential for smooth operation."

Tip:Think of "adjusting" or "governing" something to make it work as it should.

Idioms & expressions

Under the regulations

According to the rules or laws.

"The company must operate under the current regulations."

Beyond regulation

Outside of the normal rules or controls; uncontrolled.

"The rapid technological advancements have pushed the boundaries beyond regulation."

From Late Latin *regulatio* ("a ruling, direction"), from *regulare* ("to regulate"), from *regula* ("a rule, straight stick, bar"). The word's development mirrors the evolution of legal and administrative systems.

The term "regulation" began to appear in legal and administrative contexts from the 17th century onwards, with the development of complex governance systems.

Memory tip

Think of the "rules" and the "governing authority" as the core elements.

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Usage

30%Spoken
70%Written