Unwritten rule

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Unwritten rule" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a guideline or expectation that is understood but not formally documented or stated. Example: "In our office, there's an unwritten rule that everyone should respect each other's personal space."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It's an unwritten rule".

The New York Times

"It's an unwritten rule," Mr. O'Sullivan said.

The New York Times

It is an unwritten rule between blokes".

The Guardian - Opinion

This is an unwritten rule of working.

The New York Times

More than an unwritten rule, that's baseball reality.

The New York Times - Sports

The unwritten rule, however, was not to ask questions.

Independent

O.K., it's time to get out the unwritten rule book.

The New York Times

Enthusiastic Protestants seem to have flouted that unwritten rule.

The Economist

There is a strange, unwritten rule among theatre directors.

The Guardian

The unwritten rule: once a chamar, always a chamar.

The Guardian - Opinion

The Sooner There is an unwritten rule about Jerry Schmidt.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing company culture or team dynamics, use "unwritten rule" to highlight expected behaviors that aren't formally documented. This can help clarify expectations and foster a more inclusive environment.

Common error

Avoid using "unwritten rule" when referring to official policies or documented procedures. The term specifically denotes informal, unspoken expectations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "unwritten rule" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. As Ludwig AI confirms, it denotes an informal convention or expectation, often understood but not explicitly stated. Examples from Ludwig show its usage in describing workplace norms, social expectations, and even aspects of sports.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Academia

2%

Social Media

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "unwritten rule" is a commonly used and grammatically sound way to describe an unspoken convention or expectation. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is frequently used across various contexts, particularly in news and media, to identify implicitly understood norms within groups, workplaces, or society at large. While alternatives like "unspoken rule" and "tacit agreement" exist, the core meaning remains consistent: an agreement or practice not formally documented but widely recognized and followed. When using this phrase, ensure you're referring to genuine informal expectations and not official policies, to avoid any confusion.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unspoken rule

This alternative emphasizes the lack of explicit communication regarding the rule.

tacit agreement

This phrase highlights the implied understanding or consensus without formal expression.

implied norm

This option focuses on the understood standard of behavior within a group or society.

established norm

Refers to a standard or pattern of behavior that is well recognized and followed.

customary practice

This alternative points to a long-standing tradition or habit that is generally followed.

social convention

This phrase refers to established societal norms that guide behavior.

gentleman's agreement

Implies an agreement that is not legally binding but based on trust and honor.

code of conduct

This refers to a set of principles or expectations that guide behavior within a specific group or context. Although a "code of conduct" is often written, sometimes it exists as an unspoken set of expectations.

conventional wisdom

Describes beliefs or assumptions that are widely accepted but not necessarily based on facts.

accepted practice

Highlights that the practice is something that is generally considered the norm.

FAQs

How can I use "unwritten rule" in a sentence?

You can use "unwritten rule" to describe a custom or practice that is not formally documented but is generally understood and followed, such as "There's an "unwritten rule" in the office that you don't use the last of the coffee without making a new pot."

What is an alternative to saying "unwritten rule"?

Alternatives to "unwritten rule" include "unspoken rule", "tacit agreement", or "implied norm". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is "unwritten rule" the same as a law?

No, an "unwritten rule" is not the same as a law. A law is a formal, legally binding rule enforced by a governing authority, while an "unwritten rule" is an informal custom or practice that is generally followed but not legally enforced.

Where is "unwritten rule" commonly applied?

The "unwritten rule" is commonly applied in various social contexts, including workplaces, sports, and social groups, to describe expected behaviors or norms that are not formally documented.