Direction
Direction noun - A statement of what to do that must be obeyed by those concerned.
Usage example: we were given very specific directions for the first part of the exam
Rule is a synonym for direction in control topic. In some cases you can use "Rule" instead a noun "Direction", when it comes to topics like instruction, law.
Rule
Rule noun - A statement spelling out the proper procedure or conduct for an activity.
Usage example: read the rules that are posted before you use the pool
Direction is a synonym for rule in control topic. You can use "Direction" instead a noun "Rule", if it concerns topics such as regulation, standard, government, leadership of organization.
Mutual synonyms
Related pairs
How words are described
Both words in one sentence
- It's almost a general rule that the nicer and more unassuming a character is, the more likely you can point them in the general direction of the enemy army, alone, and have them win.
- You can't rule or make a profit in a destroyed world, so somebody needs to point Idiot Heroes in the right direction to protect all those potential victims.
Source: Fan Fic / Ashes of the Past -
The general rule is if you're heading away from it, you're going in the right direction.
Source: Where the Hell Is Springfield?
Cite this Source
Rule and Direction. (2016). Retrieved 2026, July 21, from https://thesaurus.plus/related/direction/rule
Direction & Rule. N.p., 2016. Web. 21 Jul. 2026. <https://thesaurus.plus/related/direction/rule>.
Rule or Direction. 2016. Accessed July 21, 2026. https://thesaurus.plus/related/direction/rule.
Google Ngram Viewer shows how "direction" and "rule" have occurred on timeline