How to Use Regime and Regimen Correctly

Regime and regimen are two extremely similar words, both originating from the Latin regere, meaning "to direct."[1] However, they mean two very different things and are often confused. Here's how to differentiate between the two.


  1. 1
    Understand what a "regimen" is. A regimen is a set of steps that one can follow for diet, exercise, medicine, or other health practice.[2] It is a type of routine. Some definitions are more strict than others; one dictionary states that a regimen must include medication.[3] However, it can usually be applied to any health practice.
    • A doctor may prescribe a 'regimen of medical treatment.
    • A skincare regimen might include washing, toning, and moisturizing your skin.
  2. 2
    Understand what a "regime" is. A regime is a form of rules, government, or leadership.[4] It often implies a strict, authoritarian control. A regime is like a strict rule, or it can be "the conditions under which a scientific or industrial process occurs".
    • The dictator imposed a fascist regime upon her country.
    • My grandmother held a strict regime over the household, and we all feared her disapproving eye.
    • Occasionally, it can refer to a time period in which a certain type of government held power. For example, the old kings of France comprised the Ancient Regime.
  3. 3
    Recognize that on occasion they are interchangeable. Regime can occasionally be used to describe a regimen.
    • This is more common in British English than in American English.[5]

Community Q&A

Ask a Question
200 characters left


  • If you still aren't sure, consult a dictionary, or use a thesaurus to find another word about which you are certain.
    0 Helpful?  0

About This Article

10 votes - 100%
Co-authors: 9
Views: 15,399
Categories: English Grammar

Did this article help you?