Regulator
UK /["/ˈreɡjuleɪtə(r)/"]/US /["/ˈreɡjuleɪtər/"]/
Definition
a person or an organization that officially controls an area of business or industry and makes sure that it is operating fairly
In simple words: A person or organization that controls or manages something.
Examples
- Ofgas, the gas industry regulator
- banking regulators
- a pressure regulator
Usage notes
Commonly used in discussions about government, finance, and industry. Avoid in casual conversations. Appropriate when discussing laws or rules.
Grammar pattern
regulator + object
Memory hint
Think of a 'regular' person who ensures everything is 'in order' or 'regulated'.
Collocations
- government regulator
- financial regulator
- industry regulator
- regulatory body
Synonyms
- controller
- administrator
- overseer
- supervisor
Antonyms
- anarchist
- non-regulator
Common mistakes
- Confused with 'regulate' — 'regulator' is a noun, while 'regulate' is a verb.
- Using 'regulator' in an informal context.
- Mispronouncing as 'regulater' instead of 'regulator'.