comply with the rules
/kəmˈplaɪ wɪð ðə ruːlz/
Meaning
This expression means to obey, follow, or adhere to established regulations, laws, or guidelines. It is typically used in formal, legal, or official contexts, such as at work, in school, or when dealing with government procedures. The tone is serious and authoritative.
Examples
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All visitors must comply with the rules of the facility while on site.
All visitors must comply with the rules of the facility while on site.
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If you fail to comply with the rules, your membership may be terminated.
If you fail to comply with the rules, your membership may be terminated.
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The company had to change its packaging to comply with the rules set by the environmental agency.
The company had to change its packaging to comply with the rules set by the environmental agency.
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It is essential that we comply with the rules to avoid getting a heavy fine.
It is essential that we comply with the rules to avoid getting a heavy fine.
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New tenants are expected to comply with the rules regarding noise levels after 10 PM.
New tenants are expected to comply with the rules regarding noise levels after 10 PM.
Common Mistakes
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✗ You must comply the rules of the game.
✓ You must comply with the rules of the game.
Comply is an intransitive verb in this context and always requires the preposition 'with' before the object.
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✗ The staff refused to comply to the rules.
✓ The staff refused to comply with the rules.
Learners often confuse 'comply with' with 'adhere to' or 'conform to', incorrectly using 'to' instead of 'with'.
Related Expressions
Practice
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All competitors must ___ if they want to participate in the tournament.
💡 Obey the established regulations.
Show answer
comply with the rules
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It is not optional; you have to ___ of the library.
💡 Follow the library's official regulations.
Show answer
comply with the rules