regulate
12 synonyms and 1 antonym for regulate, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Verb — To control something using rules, especially to make sure it works properly or fairly.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Antonyms
deregulate
How to use regulate
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
regulate an industry
regulate temperature
strictly regulated
Etymology
From Latin regulātus, past participle of regulō, "to direct, control," from regula ("rule").
Full origin of regulate →Frequently asked questions
What does “regulate” mean?
The word “regulate” means to control something using rules, especially to make sure it works properly or fairly. In plain terms, to control or manage something using set rules so it stays within proper limits.
How do you pronounce “regulate”?
“Regulate” is pronounced REHG-yuh-layt (/ˈɹɛɡjəleɪ̯t/ in IPA).
How do you use “regulate” in a sentence?
Here is “regulate” used in a sentence: “The government regulates how banks can lend money.”
What part of speech is “regulate”?
“Regulate” is a verb.
Where does the word “regulate” come from?
The word “regulate” comes from Latin. From Latin regulātus, past participle of regulō, "to direct, control," from regula ("rule").
Is “regulate” a common word?
“Regulate” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
What is the difference between "regulate" and "control"?
"Control" is broad and simply means to have power over something. "Regulate" is more specific: it means to control something using rules or to adjust it to a standard, usually so it works properly or fairly, as when governments regulate an industry.
What is the difference between "regulate" and "deregulate"?
To regulate is to control an activity with rules and oversight. To deregulate is the opposite: it means to remove or reduce those rules, giving an industry or market more freedom to operate without official control.
Can "regulate" mean to adjust something like temperature?
Yes. Besides governing with rules, "regulate" can mean to adjust a device or process so that it works correctly, such as to regulate the heating or to regulate blood sugar. Both uses share the idea of keeping something functioning properly.
What nouns commonly go with "regulate"?
Common objects include "regulate the economy," "regulate an industry," "regulate traffic," "regulate temperature," and "regulate blood sugar." In each case the word means bringing something under proper or fair control.
