规律 guīlǜ rule (e.g. of science)
rule (e.g. of science); law of behavior; regular pattern; rhythm; discipline
How to remember 规律: 规 rules + 律 statute = rule (e.g. of science).
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How it is used
- A regular pattern or underlying law - 自然规律 (zìrán guīlǜ) laws of nature, 生活很有规律 (shēnghuó hěn yǒu guīlǜ) a well-regulated, regular life.
- An observed regularity/rhythm things follow, versus 规则 (guīzé) which is a man-made rule to obey.
- As an adjective it means 'regular': 作息规律 regular routine.