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What is the Meaning of “Regulate”?

Regulate
/ˈreɡjuleɪt/

To control or manage something by making rules, or to adjust something to a certain level.

Definition of Regulate

Quick Meaning of Regulate

To control or manage something by making rules, or to adjust something to a certain level.

Detailed Definition of Regulate

To control or supervise something by setting and enforcing rules or standards; to adjust or maintain at a set level.

How to Pronounce Regulate

IPA: /ˈreɡjuleɪt/
reg u late

Stress pattern: Oos (3-syllable word).

Full pronunciation guide for “regulate” →

How to Use Regulate in a Sentence

Each example shows “regulate” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.

  • “The government regulates the activities of banks to protect consumers.”
    B1 formal
  • “He regulates his daily schedule to maintain a healthy work-life balance.”
    B1 daily
  • “Scientists regulate the temperature in the laboratory to ensure accurate results.”
    B2 academic

Synonyms and Antonyms of Regulate

Common Synonyms for Regulate

Smart Synonyms for Regulate — When to Use Each

control
general supervision or command over
manage
direct or handle something responsibly
adjust
set to proper level or state

See all synonyms for “regulate” →

Common Collocations with Regulate

These phrases pair with “regulate” in everyday English:

  • regulate traffic
  • regulate body temperature
  • regulate the market
  • regulate prices

Common Mistakes When Using Regulate

Even fluent speakers slip up with “regulate”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:

✗ Wrong: The government should regulates all industries.
✓ Correct: The government should regulate all industries.
Why: The verb 'regulate' after 'should' must be in base form, not third person singular.
✗ Wrong: She regulated careful the dosage of medicine.
✓ Correct: She carefully regulated the dosage of medicine.
Why: The adverb 'carefully' must come before or after the verb, not between the verb and object.

Frequently Asked Questions About Regulate

What is the meaning of "Regulate"?

To control or manage something by making rules, or to adjust something to a certain level.

How do you pronounce "Regulate"?

The IPA is /ˈreɡjuleɪt/.

What part of speech is "Regulate"?

"Regulate" is a verb at B1 level (Common European Framework).

What are synonyms for "Regulate"?

Common synonyms include control, manage, adjust.

How do you use "Regulate" in a sentence?

For example: "The government regulates the activities of banks to protect consumers."

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