規則

きそく

rule, regulation

JLPT N4

Character Breakdown

Meaning and Usage

The word 規則 (きそく) means "rule" or "regulation" and is commonly used to refer to formal or official rules set by organizations, schools, companies, or governments. It implies a standard or guideline that people are expected to follow.

Common Contexts

You will often see 規則 used when talking about school rules, workplace regulations, or legal guidelines. It is a neutral term and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.

Typical Collocations

  • 規則を守る (きそくをまもる): to follow or obey rules
  • 規則に従う (きそくにしたがう): to comply with regulations
  • 規則を変更する (きそくをへんこうする): to change rules

Usage Notes

When using 規則, speakers imply that these are established rules that have authority and must be respected. It is different from informal or personal rules, which might use other words like ルール (rule) or 決まり (きまり).

A common learner mistake is confusing 規則 with ルール. 規則 often refers to official or formal rules, while ルール can be more casual or game-related rules. Use 規則 when referring to official regulations to sound natural and accurate.

Example Sentences

がっこうのきそくをまもらなければなりません。

You must follow the school's rules.

このきそくはらいげつからへんこうされます。

This rule will be changed starting next month.

かいしゃのきそくにしたがってこうどうしてください。

Please act according to the company's regulations.