Rules And Regulations

We are affected by laws, rules and regulations every day of our lives.

 - One of the rules is that nobody can be in the office after 8 p.m.

- There are so many government regulations for driving a car. 

- It's important to understand the laws of a country that you're visiting.

Use these words and phrases to talk about laws: 

- In my country, it's still legal to talk on the phone while driving. 

- Smoking in bars and restaurants is illegal in my city. 

- Driving over 30 miles per hour downtown is against the law. 

- He had to pay a fine for driving without his seatbelt on.

Use these words and phrases to talk about things you can and can't do: 

- Swimming is not allowed here because of safety concerns. 

- Driving a motorcycle without a helmet is prohibited by law. 

- Use of cellphones during the flight is not permitted.

Talking About Rules And Regulations 

Use these expressions to bring a rule or regulation to someone's attention:

- It's been brought to my attention that you've been smoking on the balcony.

- Did you not receive the new office rules?

-There's now a regulation against smoking anywhere in the building.

- It's a new city law. It's a new city law.

Use must to express strong obligation and mustn't to say that something is not allowed:

 - You must follow the new office rules.

- You mustn't smoke on the balcony.

Here are some more expressions for talking about rules and regulations: 

- There's a $50 fine for not wearing a seatbelt. 

 - The rules are there to protect people. 

- You can't just smoke anywhere you want.

- I'm sorry, but it's not allowed.

 

Politely Turning Down Requests

If you are in a position of authority, you might have to turn down someone's request or explain rules to them.

A: That's crazy! Why can't I smoke here?

B: I'm sorry, but that's the law.

Use these other expressions to turn down requests politely: 

- I'm afraid that's just not possible.

- I'd really like to help you, but I don't make the rules.

- Unfortunately, there's nothing I can do.

Culture note: Whether the person you are talking to is polite or not, it's always a good idea to remain polite yourself.