statute

noun

ˈsta-(ˌ)chüt How to pronounce statute (audio)
Definition of statutenext
as in law
a rule of conduct or action laid down by a governing authority and especially a legislature a new antilittering statute

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How is the word statute distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of statute are canon, law, ordinance, precept, regulation, and rule. While all these words mean "a principle governing action or procedure," statute implies a law enacted by a legislative body.

a statute requiring the use of seat belts

In what contexts can canon take the place of statute?

While the synonyms canon and statute are close in meaning, canon suggests in nonreligious use a principle or rule of behavior or procedure commonly accepted as a valid guide.

the canons of good taste

Where would law be a reasonable alternative to statute?

In some situations, the words law and statute are roughly equivalent. However, law implies imposition by a sovereign authority and the obligation of obedience on the part of all subject to that authority.

obey the law

When can ordinance be used instead of statute?

While in some cases nearly identical to statute, ordinance applies to an order governing some detail of procedure or conduct enforced by a limited authority such as a municipality.

a city ordinance

When is it sensible to use precept instead of statute?

Although the words precept and statute have much in common, precept commonly suggests something advisory and not obligatory communicated typically through teaching.

the precepts of effective writing

When might regulation be a better fit than statute?

The words regulation and statute can be used in similar contexts, but regulation implies prescription by authority in order to control an organization or system.

regulations affecting nuclear power plants

When is rule a more appropriate choice than statute?

The words rule and statute are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, rule applies to more restricted or specific situations.

the rules of the game

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of statute If the waiver is granted, the legislature would not have to enact a statute for the Indiana finance authority to take action on tolling. —Alexandra Kukulka, Chicago Tribune, 11 Apr. 2025 Technically, per the Brennan Center for Justice, the law is combined into different statutes which were enacted by Congress between 1792 and 1871. —Gordon G. Chang, MSNBC Newsweek, 8 Apr. 2025 There are now at least six federal statutes delegating some tariff authorities to the president, according to the Congressional Research Service. —Kevin Breuninger, CNBC, 4 Apr. 2025 The attorney general can consider financial and practical matters when determining which statutes to prioritize, experts said. —Matthew Cupelli, Sun Sentinel, 3 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for statute
Recent Examples of Synonyms for statute
  1. law
  2. act
  3. bill
  4. ordinance
  5. amendment
Noun
  • The memo signed by Rubio also makes the case that another person, whose name is redacted, should be deportable under the same law.
    — Nadine El-Bawab, ABC News, 11 Apr. 2025
  • Landry, who signed the legislation into law in March 2024, appointed five new people to the seven-member board.
    — Richard A. Webster, ProPublica, 10 Apr. 2025
Definition of law
Noun
  • In a world wired for hustle, that choice becomes a radical act of self-respect.
    — Mark Travers, Forbes.com, 14 Apr. 2025
  • This includes protective styles and even the simple act of tying your hair elastic too tightly when creating the perfect ponytail.
    — Shannon Lawlor, Glamour, 14 Apr. 2025
Definition of act
Noun
  • The bill introduced by Warren and Stansbury faces an uncertain future on Capitol Hill.
    — Allison Pecorin, ABC News, 14 Apr. 2025
  • But these days the church is in disrepair and has been closed for two years because the gas bill could not be paid and the heat turned off.
    — Janice Neumann, Chicago Tribune, 14 Apr. 2025
Definition of bill
Noun
  • If the legal challenge stalls or overturns the city's ordinance and what that could mean for future efforts to bring housing into industrial neighborhoods.
    — Christine Clarridge, Axios, 9 Apr. 2025
  • Following the unanimous vote by the council Tuesday, city staff will return with a draft ordinance April 22 and again for a second reading May 13.
    — Gary Warth, San Diego Union-Tribune, 9 Apr. 2025
Definition of ordinance
Noun
  • House lawmakers Friday approved amendments to House Bill 96, which allows government entities to display only certain flags, such as the official Idaho, U.S. and state flags.
    — Carolyn Komatsoulis, Idaho Statesman, 28 Mar. 2025
  • That limits debate and only gives opponents until April 2 to submit amendments.
    — Jon McGowan, Forbes.com, 28 Mar. 2025
Definition of amendment

Browse Nearby Words

status quo
statute
statutes
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Cite this Entry

“Statute.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/statute. Accessed 22 Apr. 2025.

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More from Merriam-Webster on statute

Nglish: Translation of statute for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about statute

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