What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
governed
Example
The company's policies are governed by strict regulations. [governed: verb]
Example
The country is governed by a democratically elected government. [governed: adjective]
Example
The students are governed by the school's code of conduct. [governed: verb]
rule
Example
One of the golden rules of business is to treat customers with respect. [rule: noun]
Example
The king ruled the kingdom with an iron fist. [ruled: verb]
Example
The city council passed a new rule prohibiting smoking in public parks. [rule: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Rule is more commonly used than governed in everyday language, as it is more versatile and covers a wider range of contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between governed and rule?
Both governed and rule can be used in formal and informal contexts, but rule may be perceived as more formal due to its association with laws and regulations.
