rule

1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning

• Structure: 規 is read き. It has 11 strokes and relates to rules or standards.
• Basic usage: 規則 is read きそく, and 定規 is read じょうぎ.

2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions

• 規則 and 定規
  • 規則 means rule or regulation.
  • 図書館では静かにするという規則を守る。 means “I follow the rule that everyone must be quiet in the library.”
  • 定規 means ruler.
  • 定規を使ってまっすぐな線を引いた。 means “I drew a straight line with a ruler.”