ENGLISH
REFERENCE

regulates

v.
B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˈɹɛɡjəˌɫeɪts// UK //ɹˈɛɡjuːlˌeɪts// reg·u·lates

v. to control an activity or process by using rules. You use this when a government or organization makes sure things are done correctly and safely.

v. to control or maintain the rate or speed of a machine or process so that it operates properly. Often involves the application of official rules or laws to manage an industry or activity.


SIMPLE

The government regulates the price of electricity.

CONTEXTUAL

A new agency now regulates how companies handle personal data to protect the privacy of every citizen.

COMPLEX

While the market often corrects itself, the state intervenes and regulates specific sectors to prevent monopolies from forming and to ensure fair competition for smaller businesses.

Synonyms
Antonyms
Usage

The verb is transitive and requires a direct object. Often used in the passive voice when discussing laws or systems.

Pitfall

The law regulates about the industry.The law regulates the industry.Regulate is a transitive verb and does not require a preposition like 'about' before its object.

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