What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
decree
Example
The king issued a decree that all citizens must pay their taxes on time. [decree: noun]
Example
The judge decreed that the defendant must pay a fine for their actions. [decreed: past tense verb]
ruling
Example
The Supreme Court's ruling on the case set a new precedent for future legal decisions. [ruling: noun]
Example
The judge ruled in favor of the plaintiff and awarded them damages. [ruled: past tense verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Ruling is more commonly used than decree in everyday language, especially in legal contexts. Ruling is a versatile term that can be used in various contexts, while decree is less common and often associated with historical or political contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between decree and ruling?
Both decree and ruling are formal and official statements that carry legal weight and are typically used in formal contexts. However, decree can have a negative connotation and may be associated with an authoritarian or dictatorial approach, while ruling is more neutral and objective in its usage.
