ルール
rūru[ɾɯ̟ːɾɯ̟]
The English phrase 'rules' is translated into Japanese as ルール (rūru).
ルール is used to refer to rules in contexts like games (ゲームのルール) or general social conventions. Other terms are used for more specific or formal types of rules, such as 交通規則 (traffic rules), 食事の規制 (dietary restrictions) or 喫煙規制 (smoking restrictions).
What does it mean word for word?
ルール is a loanword from the English word 'rule'.
Which one should you use?
For rules specifically set by an organization, institution or company, the term 運営規則 is used.
How does it change in a sentence?
To express actions regarding rules, you use the object marker を.
How do you pronounce it?
rūru
Did you know?
- While ルール is used for games, Japanese culture emphasizes 空気を読む, which means 'reading the air'. This refers to an unwritten set of social rules that must be followed without being explicitly stated.
- In certain contexts, a 'rule' can be referred to as an 掟 (okite), a word that carries a much more heavy, ancient, or even legendary connotation than the simple ルール.
- The phrase ルールを守る (rūru o mamoru) means 'to follow the rules', but the verb 守る (mamoru) literally carries the nuance of 'protecting' or 'defending' something.
Examples in context
- ルール違反だぞ。It's against the rules.This sentence is useful for noting a rule violation using ルール.Tatoeba #11571578 by small_snow, translation #42594 by CK
- ルール分かってる？Do you know the rules?This sentence is useful for asking if someone understands the rules using ルール.Tatoeba #11030926 by small_snow, translation #6702138 by Hybrid
- ルールを守りなさい。Follow the rules.This sentence is useful for instructing someone to follow the rules using ルール.Tatoeba #10049660 by small_snow, translation #3529411 by Hybrid
- 私たちは運営規則に従わなければなりません。We must follow the rules and regulations set by the organization.
- 入場する前に規則を読んでください。Please read the rules before entering.
- あの場所ではスマートフォンの使用は規制されています。The use of smartphones is restricted in that area.
- 36 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Two friends are discussing a board game they are about to play.
- 陽葵 Himariこのゲームのルール、知ってる？Kono gēmu no rūru, shitteru?Do you know the rules of this game?
- 大翔 Hirotoいや、全然知らないよ。Iya, zenzen shiranai yo.No, I don't know them at all.
- 陽葵 Himariじゃあ、私がルールを説明するね。Jā, watashi ga rūru o setsumei suru ne.Then, I will explain the rules.
- 大翔 Hirotoありがとう。お願いするよ。Arigatō. Onegai suru yo.Thanks. Please do.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry ルール, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
