1. to break or fail to obey established rules, regulations, or laws
The athlete was penalized for violating the rules of the competition.
O atleta foi penalizado por violar as regras da competição.
2. to act in defiance of agreed-upon standards or codes of conduct
Students who violate the rules of the school may face disciplinary action.
Estudantes que violam as regras da escola podem enfrentar medidas disciplinares.