# regulate

/ˈɹɛɡjəˌɫeɪt/ (US) · /ɹˈɛɡjuːlˌeɪt/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/regulate
Updated: 2026-07-22

## Senses

### 1. to control by rules

verb · CEFR B2 · Academic

to control an activity or process by using official rules or laws.

For teachers: to control or direct a process, industry, or activity according to a set of rules, principles, or legislation.

- The government needs to regulate the banking industry to prevent another financial crisis.
- National authorities must regulate the disposal of industrial waste to ensure that local ecosystems are protected from chemical contamination.

Usage: Often used in the passive voice when discussing industries or markets.

### 2. to adjust a mechanism

verb · CEFR C1 · Technical

to adjust a piece of equipment so that it works at the right speed or temperature.

For teachers: to adjust a mechanism or physical system to ensure accurate and proper functioning.

- This valve helps to regulate the flow of water through the pipes.
- The internal thermostat is designed to regulate the temperature of the server room, preventing the hardware from overheating during peak usage.

Usage: Takes a direct object, usually a physical property like 'flow', 'temperature', or 'pressure'.

### 3. biological control

verb · CEFR C1 · Academic · Technical

the way a living thing controls its own internal systems, like body heat.

For teachers: to govern or direct the internal physiological processes of an organism.

- Sweating is one way the human body helps to regulate its temperature.
- The endocrine system works to regulate various biological functions by releasing hormones directly into the bloodstream.

## Examples

- The government needs to regulate the price of electricity.
- New laws were passed to regulate how companies handle the private data of their customers.
- The body uses complex hormonal signals to regulate blood sugar levels, ensuring that energy is distributed efficiently to vital organs during periods of physical exertion.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.