abided by
Kept the rules
To abide by something is to follow or comply with it—a rule, decision, or agreement: We agreed to abide by the referee's call.
Abided by is the past tense, indicating compliance that already occurred: She abided by the terms of the contract.
The phrase implies acceptance even when disagreement exists.
Came behind another
- adheredRemained attached to
- observedPerceived through attention
- upheldAffirmed on review
- respectedHeld in high regard
heeded · conformed · obeyed · honored · fulfilled · kept · maintained · submitted
Loyalty owed to authority
- faithfulnessDevoted loyalty maintained
- devotionDeep, loyal commitment
- fidelityLoyalty or exactness
- steadfastnessFirm loyal dedication
commitment · dedication · constancy · reliability · dependability · trustworthiness · honor · integrity
Enforceable societal rules
- regulationsEnforced rules and standards
- standardsAccepted levels of quality
- normsExpected behavioral standards
- protocolsEstablished codes of conduct
guidelines · codes · customs · traditions · policies · terms · conditions · procedures
followed
Came behind another
respected · heeded · conformed · obeyed · honored · fulfilled · kept · maintained · submitted · deferred
allegiance
Loyalty owed to authority
- faithfulnessDevoted loyalty maintained
- devotionDeep, loyal commitment
- fidelityLoyalty or exactness
steadfastness · commitment · dedication · constancy · reliability · dependability · trustworthiness · honor · integrity · bond
laws
Enforceable societal rules
- regulationsEnforced rules and standards
- standardsAccepted levels of quality
- normsExpected behavioral standards
protocols · guidelines · codes · customs · traditions · policies · terms · conditions · procedures · statutes