Unwritten Law
Definition:
The term "unwritten law" refers to rules or principles that are not formally written down but are understood and accepted by people in a society or community. These laws often come from traditions, customs, or social norms rather than official legislation.
Usage Instructions:
You can use "unwritten law" when talking about expected behaviors or norms that people follow, even though there are no official rules about them. It is often used in discussions about social behavior, ethics, or cultural practices.
Example:
- "In many cultures, it is considered an unwritten law that you should always greet your elders with respect."
Advanced Usage:
In more complex discussions, "unwritten law" can also refer to moral obligations or ethical standards that guide people's actions, even when there are no legal consequences for ignoring them.
Word Variants:
- There are no direct variants of "unwritten law," but you might encounter similar phrases like "social norms" or "customary law."
Different Meaning:
While "unwritten law" primarily refers to social customs, it can also be used metaphorically to talk about any unspoken rules in different contexts, such as in workplaces or informal groups.
Synonyms:
- Implicit rule - Social norm - Customary practice - Traditional rule
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:
There aren’t specific idioms or phrasal verbs that directly relate to "unwritten law," but you might hear phrases like "the rules of the game," which can indicate similar ideas about understood behaviors in a particular context.
Conclusion:
Understanding "unwritten law" helps you recognize the importance of social customs and behaviors that guide how people interact, even when they are not officially recorded.