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.  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.