norma
“norma” means “rule” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
rule, regulation
Also: statute
📝 In Action
Debemos seguir las normas de seguridad en el trabajo.
A1We must follow the safety rules at work.
El gobierno aprobó una nueva norma para proteger el medio ambiente.
A2The government approved a new regulation to protect the environment.
standard, norm
Also: guideline
📝 In Action
En esta cultura, saludar con un beso es la norma social.
B1In this culture, greeting with a kiss is the social norm.
El producto debe cumplir con las normas de calidad internacionales.
B2The product must comply with international quality standards.
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✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: norma
Question 1 of 1
Which sentence uses 'norma' in its most formal sense (official regulation)?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
The word comes directly from the Latin word *norma*, which originally referred to a carpenter's square or level—a tool used to ensure things were straight, true, and according to a standard. This physical tool soon became a metaphor for a rule or principle that guides behavior or construction.
First recorded: Medieval Latin texts
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
¿Cuál es la diferencia entre 'norma' y 'regla'?
Both mean 'rule,' but 'norma' often sounds more official, formal, or technical (like a government regulation or quality standard). 'Regla' is more common for general instructions, like rules in a game or simple household rules.
How do I say 'against the rules'?
You can use 'contra la norma' or 'en contra de la norma.' For example: 'Fumar aquí es contra la norma' (Smoking here is against the rule).