The characters combine seamlessly to mean: [To] govern the country according to the law.
`依法治国` is a relatively modern concept in China's long history. For millennia, the dominant philosophy was 人治 (rénzhì), or “rule by man.” This system prioritized the moral virtue, wisdom, and authority of the emperor and his officials over any written legal code. The law was often seen as a tool for punishment rather than a guiding principle for governance. The shift towards `依法治国` gained momentum in the post-Mao era, particularly under Deng Xiaoping. After the chaos and lawlessness of the Cultural Revolution, leaders saw the need for a stable, institutionalized system to ensure economic development and social order. `依法治国` became the official policy to achieve this. Comparison to Western “Rule of Law”: This is the most critical distinction for a learner. In Western liberal democracies, “rule of law” generally implies that no one is above the law, including the government or the ruling party. The law acts as a fundamental check on power. In the context of `依法治国`, the concept is better understood as “rule by law.” The law is the primary instrument that the Communist Party of China (CPC) uses to govern the country effectively. The Party leads the legislative process and directs the state. Therefore, the law serves the Party's objectives and leadership; it is not seen as a force that constrains the Party itself. While it provides predictability for citizens and businesses, the ultimate authority remains with the Party, not an independent legal principle.
`依法治国` is a high-level, formal term used almost exclusively in political and official contexts.
You would never use this term in casual, everyday conversation. It is strictly for formal discussions about national governance. Its connotation is overwhelmingly positive and aspirational, signaling progress, stability, and modernity.