Abstract: We think both the connotation and extension of fazhi (法治) and fazhi (法制) are different, and their English translations need to be considered carefully. Based on dictionary definition, we compared the two pairs of words, fazhi (法治) and fazhi (法制), and rule of law and rule by law. We also put forward suggestions for English translation of fazhi(法治) and fazhi(法制).

Key words: fazhi (法治), fazhi (法制), rule of law, rule by law