according to the rules
/əˈkɔːrdɪŋ tu ðə ruːlz/
Meaning
This phrase means in agreement with or obedient to the official guidelines, laws, or instructions of a game, organization, or society. It is used to state that an action is being done correctly and legally. The tone is neutral and objective.
Examples
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According to the rules, you must wear a helmet while riding.
According to the rules, you must wear a helmet while riding.
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We played the game strictly according to the rules.
We played the game strictly according to the rules.
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According to the rules, no pets are allowed in the building.
According to the rules, no pets are allowed in the building.
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He did everything according to the rules, but still failed.
He did everything according to the rules, but still failed.
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According to the rules of the contest, you can only enter once.
According to the rules of the contest, you can only enter once.
Common Mistakes
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✗ According the rules, we must leave at ten.
✓ According to the rules, we must leave at ten.
The preposition 'according' must always be followed by 'to' when introducing a source or standard.
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✗ We must play accord to the rules.
✓ We must play according to the rules.
Use the participle form 'according', not the base verb 'accord', in this fixed prepositional phrase.
Related Expressions
Practice
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___, you cannot use your phone during the exam.
💡 Capitalize the first word.
Show answer
According to the rules
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Please make sure you fill out the application ___.
💡 Matches official instructions.
Show answer
according to the rules