ルールを守る
ruuru o mamoru
follow rules
Literally: {"\u30eb\u30fc\u30eb":"rule","\u3092":"object particle","\u5b88\u308b":"to protect, to guard, to keep"}
In 15 Seconds
- Follows established guidelines.
- Respects order and fairness.
- Neutral, widely applicable.
- Opposite of breaking rules.
Meaning
This phrase is all about sticking to the script, you know? It means to properly observe and obey established guidelines, whether they're official laws, game rules, or just unwritten social etiquette. Think of it as being a good citizen or a fair player – you're not trying to bend or break the system, you're just playing by the book.
Key Examples
3 of 12Texting a friend about a game night
今日のゲーム、ちゃんとルールを守って遊ぼうね！
Let's play properly and follow the rules for tonight's game!
At a company meeting about new procedures
新しいシステム導入にあたり、全社員がルールを守る必要があります。
Upon the introduction of the new system, all employees must adhere to the rules.
Instagram caption about a hiking trip
自然保護のため、公園のルールを守ってきました。🌿 #自然 #ルールを守る
To protect nature, we followed the park's rules. 🌿 #Nature #FollowTheRules
Cultural Background
The emphasis on `ルールを守る` stems from Japan's strong cultural value of group harmony (`和`, wa) and social order. Adhering to rules isn't just about obedience; it's about contributing to a smoothly functioning society where everyone's actions are predictable and considerate. This collective mindset prioritizes the group's well-being over individual desires, making rule-following a fundamental social expectation.
Verb Choice Matters!
While `守る` (mamoru) is versatile, for very strict or legal regulations, consider `遵守する` (junshu suru) for a more formal tone, like in legal documents.
Don't Confuse with 'Maintain'!
A common pitfall is using `保つ` (tamotsu) instead of `守る` (mamoru). Remember, you 'keep' or 'follow' rules, you don't 'maintain' them. So, ✗ルールを保つ → ✓ルールを守る.
In 15 Seconds
- Follows established guidelines.
- Respects order and fairness.
- Neutral, widely applicable.
- Opposite of breaking rules.
What It Means
This phrase, ルールを守る (ruuru o mamoru), is your go-to for saying you'll follow the rules. It's about respecting boundaries and established procedures. It carries a sense of responsibility and fairness. It’s like nodding and saying, “Got it, I’ll play by these guidelines.”
How To Use It
You use ルールを守る when you want to express your intention or acknowledgment of following specific regulations or norms. It's versatile enough for formal settings and casual chats. Just pop it in a sentence where you’re talking about adhering to something.
Real-Life Examples
Imagine you're joining a new online game. The first thing you'd do is check the 利用規約 (terms of service). You might tell yourself, "Okay, I need to ルールを守る to avoid getting banned." Or perhaps you're teaching a kid how to play a board game: "Remember, we have to ルールを守る so it's fair for everyone."
When To Use It
Use this when talking about laws, company policies, sports regulations, classroom instructions, or even social norms like queuing. If there’s a defined way of doing things, and you’re committing to that way, ルールを守る fits perfectly. It’s useful when you want to sound conscientious.
When NOT To Use It
Don't use ルールを守る for personal preferences or vague suggestions. If your friend says, "Let's just wing it tonight," you wouldn't say, "Okay, I'll ルールを守る." It’s too formal and specific for spontaneous, unwritten social interactions. Also, avoid it when talking about abstract concepts like 'following your heart' – that's a different vibe entirely!
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes mix up 守る (mamoru) with other verbs. For instance, they might say ルールを保つ (ruuru o tamotsu – to maintain rules), which sounds odd. Or they might use a word like 従う (shitagau – to obey) in a context where 守る is more natural and less forceful. It’s like trying to 'maintain' a rule instead of 'keeping' or 'following' it.
Similar Expressions
There's 規則を守る (kisoku o mamoru), which is very similar but often implies more formal, written regulations. 従う (shitagau) means 'to obey' or 'to follow' and can be used for rules, but it sounds a bit more submissive. 従順 (juujun) is an adjective meaning 'obedient,' often used for people or animals.
Common Variations
Sometimes you’ll hear 規則正しい生活 (kisoku tadashii seikatsu), meaning a 'regular/orderly lifestyle.' While not directly using 守る, it relates to following a structured pattern. You might also hear ルール無用 (ruuru muyou), meaning 'rule-free' or 'lawless' – the exact opposite!
Memory Trick
Imagine a guardian (守る sounds a bit like 'guard') ruling (ルール sounds like 'rule') the playground. This guardian is making sure everyone plays fair and follows the rules. The guardian is protecting the fun by making sure the rules are kept!
Quick FAQ
- Is
ルールを守るformal? It's pretty neutral, leaning slightly formal. You can use it in most situations. - Can I use it for traffic laws? Absolutely! It's perfect for that.
- What if I break a rule? You'd say
ルールを破る(ruuru o yaburu – to break rules). Oops!
Cultural Context
Japanese society places a high value on harmony (和, wa) and order. The concept of ルールを守る is deeply ingrained, reflecting a collective emphasis on smooth social functioning and avoiding conflict. This phrase embodies the understanding that individual actions impact the group, making adherence to shared guidelines a social virtue.
Formality Level
neutral
Quick Summary
- Follows established guidelines.
- Respects order and fairness.
- Neutral, widely applicable.
- Opposite of breaking rules.
Key Takeaway
ルールを守る means to be a responsible participant by following the established guidelines.
Examples
[
{
"situation": "Texting a friend about a game night",
"sentence": "今日のゲーム、ちゃんとルールを守って遊ぼうね！",
"translation": "Let's play properly and follow the rules for tonight's game!",
"note": "Casual reminder to a friend, emphasizing fair play.",
"mood": "friendly",
"focus": "ルールを守って"
},
{
"situation": "At a company meeting about new procedures",
"sentence": "新しいシステム導入にあたり、全社員がルールを守る必要があります。",
"translation": "Upon the introduction of the new system, all employees must adhere to the rules.",
"note": "Formal statement emphasizing compliance with company policy.",
"mood": "professional",
"focus": "ルールを守る"
},
{
"situation": "Instagram caption about a hiking trip",
"sentence": "自然保護のため、公園のルールを守ってきました。🌿 #自然 #ルールを守る",
"translation": "To protect nature, we followed the park's rules. 🌿 #Nature #FollowTheRules",
"note": "Connecting rule-following with environmental responsibility.",
"mood": "casual",
"focus": "ルールを守って"
},
{
"situation": "Explaining game rules to a child",
"sentence": "このカードゲームでは、順番を守るのが一番大事だよ。",
"translation": "In this card game, following the turn order is the most important thing.",
"note": "Focuses on a specific rule (turn order) within the game context.",
"mood": "friendly",
"focus": "順番を守る"
},
{
"situation": "Job interview question about workplace conduct",
"sentence": "私は常に会社のルールを守ることを心がけています。",
"translation": "I always strive to follow company rules.",
"note": "Demonstrates professionalism and reliability in a formal setting.",
"mood": "professional",
"focus": "ルールを守る"
},
{
"situation": "Mistake: Using a similar but incorrect verb",
"sentence": "✗ 彼はいつもルールを保つ。 → ✓ 彼はいつもルールを守る。",
"translation": "✗ He always maintains the rules. → ✓ He always follows the rules.",
"note": "'Tamotsu' (maintain) doesn't fit; 'mamoru' (protect/keep) is correct for rules.",
"mood": "humorous",
"focus": "ルールを保つ",
"is_mistake": true
},
{
"situation": "Humorous situation: Trying to follow a complex recipe",
"sentence": "このレシピ、ルールを守ろうと必死なんだけど、なんか焦げちゃった！",
"translation": "I'm desperately trying to follow the rules of this recipe, but somehow it got burnt!",
"note": "Lighthearted take on following instructions, with a funny outcome.",
"mood": "humorous",
"focus": "ルールを守ろうと"
},
{
"situation": "Mistake: Overly literal translation in a casual context",
"sentence": "✗ 彼女はルールを保護する。 → ✓ 彼女はルールを守る。",
"translation": "✗ She protects the rules. → ✓ She follows the rules.",
"note": "'Hogo suru' (protect) sounds too strong and literal; 'mamoru' is the standard verb.",
"mood": "humorous",
"focus": "ルールを保護する",
"is_mistake": true
},
{
"situation": "Emotional moment: Reflecting on community guidelines",
"sentence": "みんながルールを守ることで、このコミュニティは成り立っているんだと思います。",
"translation": "I believe this community thrives because everyone follows the rules.",
"note": "Expresses appreciation for collective responsibility and community spirit.",
"mood": "emotional",
"focus": "ルールを守る"
},
{
"situation": "Ordering food via an app",
"sentence": "配達員さん、遅延しないようにルールを守って安全運転でお願いします！",
"translation": "Delivery person, please drive safely following the rules so you don't delay!",
"note": "A slightly unusual but understandable request for a delivery driver to follow traffic rules.",
"mood": "casual",
"focus": "ルールを守って"
},
{
"situation": "Discussing a movie plot twist",
"sentence": "あのキャラクターは、実はルールを守るタイプじゃなかったんだね。",
"translation": "That character wasn't the type to follow the rules, was he?",
"note": "Character analysis, implying a tendency to bend or break rules.",
"mood": "casual",
"focus": "ルールを守る"
},
{
"situation": "Online forum post about gaming etiquette",
"sentence": "新しいプレイヤーは、まずサーバーのルールを守ることを学ぶべきだ。",
"translation": "New players should first learn to follow the server's rules.",
"note": "Advice for newcomers in an online gaming community.",
"mood": "neutral",
"focus": "ルールを守る"
}
]
Usage Notes
This phrase is quite versatile and generally neutral in formality. While it can be used in professional settings, avoid it for highly technical or legalistic contexts where `規則` (kisoku) or `遵守` (junshu) might be more appropriate. In casual conversation, adding particles like `ね` (ne) can soften the tone.
Verb Choice Matters!
While `守る` (mamoru) is versatile, for very strict or legal regulations, consider `遵守する` (junshu suru) for a more formal tone, like in legal documents.
Don't Confuse with 'Maintain'!
A common pitfall is using `保つ` (tamotsu) instead of `守る` (mamoru). Remember, you 'keep' or 'follow' rules, you don't 'maintain' them. So, ✗ルールを保つ → ✓ルールを守る.
It's About Harmony
In Japan, following rules (`ルールを守る`) is often seen as contributing to group harmony (`和`, wa) and social order. It's not just about avoiding punishment, but about being a considerate member of society.
Context is Key
The phrase `ルールを守る` is neutral, but the surrounding words and situation dictate the formality. Adding `必要があります` (hitsuyou ga arimasu) makes it more formal, while just saying `ルール守ってね` (ruuru mamotte ne) is casual.
Examples
12今日のゲーム、ちゃんとルールを守って遊ぼうね！
Let's play properly and follow the rules for tonight's game!
Casual reminder to a friend, emphasizing fair play.
新しいシステム導入にあたり、全社員がルールを守る必要があります。
Upon the introduction of the new system, all employees must adhere to the rules.
Formal statement emphasizing compliance with company policy.
自然保護のため、公園のルールを守ってきました。🌿 #自然 #ルールを守る
To protect nature, we followed the park's rules. 🌿 #Nature #FollowTheRules
Connecting rule-following with environmental responsibility.
このカードゲームでは、順番を守るのが一番大事だよ。
In this card game, following the turn order is the most important thing.
Focuses on a specific rule (turn order) within the game context.
私は常に会社のルールを守ることを心がけています。
I always strive to follow company rules.
Demonstrates professionalism and reliability in a formal setting.
✗ 彼はいつもルールを保つ。 → ✓ 彼はいつもルールを守る。
✗ He always maintains the rules. → ✓ He always follows the rules.
'Tamotsu' (maintain) doesn't fit; 'mamoru' (protect/keep) is correct for rules.
このレシピ、ルールを守ろうと必死なんだけど、なんか焦げちゃった！
I'm desperately trying to follow the rules of this recipe, but somehow it got burnt!
Lighthearted take on following instructions, with a funny outcome.
✗ 彼女はルールを保護する。 → ✓ 彼女はルールを守る。
✗ She protects the rules. → ✓ She follows the rules.
'Hogo suru' (protect) sounds too strong and literal; 'mamoru' is the standard verb.
みんながルールを守ることで、このコミュニティは成り立っているんだと思います。
I believe this community thrives because everyone follows the rules.
Expresses appreciation for collective responsibility and community spirit.
配達員さん、遅延しないようにルールを守って安全運転でお願いします！
Delivery person, please drive safely following the rules so you don't delay!
A slightly unusual but understandable request for a delivery driver to follow traffic rules.
あのキャラクターは、実はルールを守るタイプじゃなかったんだね。
That character wasn't the type to follow the rules, was he?
Character analysis, implying a tendency to bend or break rules.
新しいプレイヤーは、まずサーバーのルールを守ることを学ぶべきだ。
New players should first learn to follow the server's rules.
Advice for newcomers in an online gaming community.
Test Yourself
Fill in the blank with the correct word.
The sentence talks about playing soccer and not committing fouls, which directly relates to following the 'rules' of the game.
Choose the sentence that uses the phrase correctly.
Which sentence correctly uses the phrase for 'follow rules'?
Option C correctly uses 'ルールを守る' (ruuru o mamoru) to mean 'must follow the rules'. Option A uses '保つ' (tamotsu - maintain) incorrectly. Option B means 'break rules'. Option D is grammatically awkward and semantically off.
Find and fix the error in the sentence.
While '従う' (shitagau - obey) can be used for rules, 'ルールを守る' (ruuru o mamoru - follow rules) is more common and natural in this context. Also, '規則' (kisoku) is a synonym for 'rule' but 'ルール' is often used colloquially.
Complete the sentence with the appropriate word.
The context of an online game community and respecting other players points to following the established 'rules' of that community.
Translate the sentence into Japanese.
This sentence expresses an obligation to follow the rules, making 'ルールを守る必要があります' the correct translation.
Select the most natural and correct sentence.
Which sentence best expresses the idea of adhering to rules in a professional setting?
Option B ('努めています' - strive to) is the most natural and professional way to express ongoing effort to follow rules. Option A ('protect') is incorrect. Option C ('従順であるべきです' - should be obedient) is a bit too strong. Option D ('保つ' - maintain) is semantically incorrect.
Identify and correct the grammatical or semantic error.
'従順する' (juujun suru) means to be obedient, but it's not typically used with 'ルール' (rules). '守る' (mamoru - to keep/follow) is the correct verb for rules. The structure '～なければなりません' (must do) is correct.
Fill in the blank, considering the nuance.
While '規則' (kisoku) and '慣習' (kanshuu) are related, 'ルール' is the most direct term for established guidelines that might be 'ignored' (無視する) by someone with a free-spirited personality.
🎉 Score: /8
Visual Learning Aids
Formality Spectrum of ルールを守る
Not typically used in very casual slang.
みんな、ちゃんとやろうぜ！ (Let's all do it properly!)
Can be used in friendly chats, often with context.
ゲームのルール守ってね！ (Follow the game rules, okay!)
Standard usage, suitable for most situations.
公共の場ではルールを守るべきです。(You should follow the rules in public places.)
Used in official documents, company policies, serious announcements.
全従業員は就業規則を守る義務があります。(All employees have a duty to follow the work regulations.)
Where Do You Use ルールを守る?
Playing a sport
審判の判定に従い、ルールを守った。
Online gaming
サーバーのルールを守らないとBANされるよ。
Workplace
会社のルールを守ることは基本です。
Driving
信号無視はルール違反だ。
School
校則を守り、真面目に勉強する。
Social etiquette
列に並ぶというルールを守ろう。
ルールを守る vs. Similar Phrases
Scenarios for Following Rules
Games & Sports
- • Playing fair
- • Following referee's calls
- • Avoiding fouls
Public Spaces
- • Traffic laws
- • Library quiet rules
- • Park regulations
Organizations
- • Company policies
- • School rules (校則)
- • Community guidelines
Digital World
- • Website terms of service
- • Online game etiquette
- • Forum rules
Practice Bank
8 exercisesサッカーの試合では、ファウルをしないように ___ を守ることが大切です。
The sentence talks about playing soccer and not committing fouls, which directly relates to following the 'rules' of the game.
Which sentence correctly uses the phrase for 'follow rules'?
Option C correctly uses 'ルールを守る' (ruuru o mamoru) to mean 'must follow the rules'. Option A uses '保つ' (tamotsu - maintain) incorrectly. Option B means 'break rules'. Option D is grammatically awkward and semantically off.
Find and fix the mistake:
子供たちは公園の規則を従うべきだ。
While '従う' (shitagau - obey) can be used for rules, 'ルールを守る' (ruuru o mamoru - follow rules) is more common and natural in this context. Also, '規則' (kisoku) is a synonym for 'rule' but 'ルール' is often used colloquially.
オンラインゲームのコミュニティでは、他のプレイヤーへの敬意を払い、___ を守ることが求められます。
The context of an online game community and respecting other players points to following the established 'rules' of that community.
You must follow the rules of this library.
Hints: Use 'must' for obligation., 'Library' is 図書館 (toshokan).
This sentence expresses an obligation to follow the rules, making 'ルールを守る必要があります' the correct translation.
Which sentence best expresses the idea of adhering to rules in a professional setting?
Option B ('努めています' - strive to) is the most natural and professional way to express ongoing effort to follow rules. Option A ('protect') is incorrect. Option C ('従順であるべきです' - should be obedient) is a bit too strong. Option D ('保つ' - maintain) is semantically incorrect.
Find and fix the mistake:
このプロジェクトを成功させるためには、チーム全員でルールを従順しなければなりません。
'従順する' (juujun suru) means to be obedient, but it's not typically used with 'ルール' (rules). '守る' (mamoru - to keep/follow) is the correct verb for rules. The structure '～なければなりません' (must do) is correct.
彼の自由奔放な性格は、時に社会の___ を無視するように見える。
While '規則' (kisoku) and '慣習' (kanshuu) are related, 'ルール' is the most direct term for established guidelines that might be 'ignored' (無視する) by someone with a free-spirited personality.
🎉 Score: /8
Video Tutorials
Find video tutorials on YouTube for this phrase.
Frequently Asked Questions
20 questionsThe most basic meaning of ルールを守る (ruuru o mamoru) is 'to follow the rules.' It signifies adhering to established guidelines, regulations, or norms in any given situation, whether it's a game, a law, or social etiquette.
Yes, ルールを守る can be used in formal situations, although it's generally considered neutral. For very formal contexts, like legal documents or official company policies, you might see or use 規則を守る (kisoku o mamoru) or the even more formal 遵守する (junshu suru).
Certainly! If you're telling your child to be careful while playing outside, you might say, '公園の遊具は、壊さないようにルールを守って使ってね。' (Kouen no yuugu wa, kowasanai you ni ruuru o mamotte tsukatte ne.) which means, 'Please use the park equipment by following the rules, so you don't break it.'
Both mean 'to follow rules/regulations.' However, ルールを守る is more general and can apply to anything from game rules to social norms. 規則を守る (kisoku o mamoru) tends to refer to more formal, often written, regulations like company rules or bylaws.
The direct opposite of ルールを守る (to follow the rules) is ルールを破る (ruuru o yaburu). This literally means 'to break the rules' and is used in the same contexts where you would talk about following them.
Absolutely! It's very common to use ルールを守る when discussing traffic laws. For instance, you might say, 'ドライバーは交通ルールを守るべきです' (Doraibaa wa koutsuu ruuru o mamoru beki desu), meaning 'Drivers should follow traffic rules.'
If you want to emphasize obedience or compliance, especially to commands or orders, you might use the verb 従う (shitagau). For example, '上司の指示に従う' (joushi no shiji ni shitagau) means 'to obey the boss's instructions.' While you can say ルールに従う, ルールを守る is often more natural for general rule-following.
A frequent mistake is using the verb 保つ (tamotsu - to maintain) instead of 守る (mamoru - to keep/protect). So, learners might mistakenly say 'ルールを保つ' instead of the correct 'ルールを守る'.
Yes, it can be used negatively. For example, 'ルールを守らないと、罰金が科せられます' (Ruuru o mamoranai to, bakkin ga kaseraremasu) means 'If you don't follow the rules, you will be fined.' This clearly indicates the consequence of not adhering to guidelines.
In very casual situations, especially among friends, you might shorten it or use particles like 'ね' (ne) or 'よ' (yo). For example, 'ゲームのルール守ってね！' (Geemu no ruuru mamotte ne!) means 'Follow the game rules, okay!' This softens the command and makes it friendlier.
Someone described as 'rule-abiding' in Japanese would likely be called 規則正しい (kisoku tadashii) if referring to their lifestyle, or simply someone who ルールを守る (ruuru o mamoru). It implies they are disciplined, orderly, and conscientious in following established procedures.
Generally, ルールを守る is standard across Japan. While regional dialects exist, this particular phrase is widely understood and used consistently. Differences are more likely in sentence endings or colloquialisms rather than the core phrase itself.
When referring to social rules or etiquette, ルールを守る emphasizes respecting shared expectations for behavior. It implies being considerate of others and maintaining social harmony, rather than just following a written law. For example, '公共の場でのルールを守る' (koukyou no ba de no ruuru o mamoru) means following etiquette in public.
Yes, 守る (mamoru) is a versatile verb! You can use it to 'protect' (身を守る - protect oneself), 'keep' a promise (約束を守る - keep a promise), 'observe' a tradition (伝統を守る - observe a tradition), or 'defend' territory (領土を守る - defend territory). Its meaning shifts slightly based on the object.
You could describe someone who always follows the rules as ルールに忠実な (ruuru ni chuujitsu na - faithful to the rules) or 堅物 (katabutsu - a rigid/strict person, sometimes negative). More neutrally, you'd just say they 'always follow the rules': '彼はいつもルールを守ります' (Kare wa itsumo ruuru o mamorimasu).
Even for unwritten rules or social conventions, ルールを守る can still be used. For example, '暗黙のルールを守る' (anmoku no ruuru o mamoru) means 'to follow the unwritten rules.' It implies understanding and adhering to expected behavior without explicit instructions.
The phrase itself is neutral. However, you adjust the politeness by changing the verb ending. ルールを守る (plain form) is casual. ルールを守ります (masu-form) is polite. ルールをお守りください (o-mamori kudasai) is a polite request or command.
Yes, it can be used ironically. For example, someone might say, 'Oh, he *always* follows the rules,' with a sarcastic tone, implying the person is actually quite rebellious or bends rules subtly. The context and tone of voice are crucial for conveying irony.
The particle を (o) is the direct object marker. It indicates that ルール (rules) is the thing being acted upon by the verb 守る (to protect/keep/follow). It shows that the rules are what is being protected or adhered to.
Generally, no. ルールを守る is for external guidelines. For personal goals, you'd use phrases like '目標を達成する' (mokuhyou o tassei suru - achieve a goal) or '計画通りに進める' (keikaku doori ni susumeru - proceed according to plan). ルールを守る implies there's an established system you're participating in.
Related Phrases
規則を守る
related topicto observe regulations
This phrase is very similar but often implies adherence to more formal, official, or written regulations compared to the general 'ルールを守る'.
ルールを破る
antonymto break the rules
This is the direct opposite of 'ルールを守る', signifying violation or transgression of established guidelines.
従う
related topicto obey, to follow
While `従う` can mean to follow rules, it often carries a stronger sense of obedience or submission, sometimes used for orders or instructions.
遵守する
formal versionto comply with, to obey (formally)
This is a much more formal and often legalistic term used for strict adherence to laws, treaties, or serious regulations.
マナーを守る
related topicto observe manners
Similar to following rules, this focuses specifically on adhering to social etiquette and good behavior, which are often unwritten social rules.
約束を守る
related topicto keep a promise
This uses the same verb `守る` but applies it to personal commitments rather than external regulations or guidelines.
