Meaning
To not follow established regulations or guidelines.
Cultural Background
Americans often value 'rule-breakers' in tech and business as 'disruptors'. Breaking the rules is generally viewed more negatively due to the importance of harmony (wa).
Context matters
Use 'break the rules' for games, school, or work. Use 'break the law' for serious crimes.
Meaning
To not follow established regulations or guidelines.
Context matters
Use 'break the rules' for games, school, or work. Use 'break the law' for serious crimes.
Test Yourself
Complete the sentence.
If you ____ the rules, you might get in trouble.
The collocation is 'break the rules'.
🎉 Score: /1
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
1 exercisesIf you ____ the rules, you might get in trouble.
The collocation is 'break the rules'.
🎉 Score: /1
Frequently Asked Questions
1 questionsYes, but it is more common to say 'the rules' (plural) as a general concept.
Related Phrases
Bend the rules
similarTo slightly ignore a rule.
Follow the rules
contrastTo obey regulations.
