a firm policy

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a firm policy" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a clear and strict set of guidelines or rules that an organization or individual adheres to. Example: "The company has implemented a firm policy regarding employee conduct to ensure a professional work environment."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

43 human-written examples

Latin American markets rose with the news today, perhaps less for the specifics than for the evidence that the leading industrial nations, which appeared to be drifting without a firm policy a month ago, were finally acting.

The New York Times

But this was not a firm policy at the time.

The New York Times

"The Chinese team has always had a firm policy about antidoping".

The New York Times - Sports

Mr. Corbett said The Times's "standard approach" was more a practice than a firm policy.

The New York Times

Canada had abolished slavery but didn't have a firm policy on fugitive slaves.

The New York Times - Books

This newsletter has a firm policy of ignoring any national presidential primary polls.

The Washington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

17 human-written examples

On Brexit, the polling suggested that adopting a firmer policy position could undermine political support for the party by alienating one group of voters or another.

The Guardian

Fear of attack became increasingly directed against Japan, prompting pressure on Great Britain for a firmer policy in the New Hebrides (since 1886 supervised jointly by Britain and France); this was achieved in 1906 07.

Encyclopedia Britannica

They have decided on a firmer policy in dealing with Japan and are no longer afraid because it is understood they believe their Far Eastern forces are adequate to meet any contingency.

The New York Times

Two years later, the OCC joined with the Federal Reserve and Federal Deposit Insurance Corp., the main banking regulators, to issue formal "guidance" meant to steer banks away from the riskiest of these loans, cementing Long's warning into a firmer policy.

The Washington Post

However, what we may see is a prioritization of deportation of illegal immigrants with criminal records and a firmer policy towards new illegal immigrants.

HuffPost

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a firm policy", ensure it's followed by a clear explanation of the policy's content or purpose to avoid ambiguity. For example, "The company has a firm policy against nepotism to ensure fairness in hiring practices".

Common error

Avoid using "a firm policy" when the policy is, in reality, flexible or subject to interpretation. Overstating the policy's rigidity can lead to distrust and perceptions of unfairness if exceptions are made.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a firm policy" functions as a noun phrase that typically acts as the subject or object of a sentence. It refers to a specific, established rule or set of guidelines. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Academia

13%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Science

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a firm policy" is commonly used to denote a strict and well-established rule or guideline, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It appears frequently in news and media, academic, and formal business contexts. When writing with this phrase, ensure that the policy is genuinely firm and clearly defined. Related phrases include "a strict guideline" and "a solid principle". Be mindful of overstating the firmness of a policy, as this can lead to credibility issues if exceptions arise. Ludwig provides numerous examples showcasing the phrase's versatility and application in various domains.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a strict guideline

Emphasizes the rigidity and lack of flexibility in the rule.

a solid principle

Focuses on the foundational and unwavering nature of the belief or rule.

a rigid regulation

Highlights the inflexible and unyielding nature of the rule.

an unshakeable rule

Stresses the unwavering and steadfast quality of the directive.

a well-defined procedure

Highlights the clear and precise nature of the established process.

an established protocol

Emphasizes the formal and recognized nature of the set of rules.

a clear mandate

Focuses on the explicit and unambiguous nature of the instruction or command.

a definitive stance

Highlights the resolute and unequivocal nature of the position or viewpoint.

a resolute commitment

Focuses on the strong and unwavering dedication to a particular course of action.

a steadfast approach

Emphasizes the consistent and unwavering manner of dealing with something.

FAQs

How can I use "a firm policy" in a sentence?

You can use "a firm policy" to describe a clear and strict rule or guideline that an organization or individual adheres to. For example: "The company has "a firm policy" against harassment."

What are some alternatives to "a firm policy"?

Alternatives to "a firm policy" include "a strict guideline", "a solid principle", or "a rigid regulation" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "a firm policy"?

It is appropriate to use "a firm policy" when referring to a well-established and consistently enforced rule or guideline. Ensure that the policy is indeed strict and not subject to frequent exceptions.

What's the difference between "a firm policy" and "a general guideline"?

"A firm policy" implies a strict and consistently enforced rule, whereas "a general guideline" suggests a more flexible recommendation or suggestion that may be adapted to individual circumstances.