a strong rule

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a strong rule" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It can be used to refer to a particular rule that is strict, well-established, and difficult to break. Example: "The company has a strong rule against using personal phones during work hours."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

China does not have a strong rule of law, and enforcing contractual rights in courts can be quite difficult.

The New York Times

The absence of a strong rule of law, in his view, is "one of the principal reasons why poor countries can't achieve higher rates of growth".

The New York Times - Science

Let's begin with the most obvious incorrect prediction, namely that passage of a strong rule (a Title II rule in telecom jargon) would be politically impossible.

The New Yorker

Trevor Davies, executive director of KPMG's International Development Assistance Services (Idas), said this was because of economic diversification, a strong rule of law, and educational opportunities.

The Guardian

Big Pharma's business model for peddling its pricey pills, which includes inducements such as "educational" conferences at lavish resorts, has led to abuses even in countries with well-paid doctors and a strong rule of law.

The Economist

"By far the most important drivers of prosperity alongside a country's ability to generate wealth are the promotion of civil liberties, a strong rule of law and effective institutions as well as a diversified economy.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

37 human-written examples

Large numbers of young Russian lawyers are moving to London, where they are learning modern commercial law procedures in a strong rule-of-law environment.

The New York Times

The high sensitivity of pain over speed bumps gives it a strong "rule-out value" and makes it a useful tool to use in excluding appendicitis and other important abdominal diagnoses.

British Medical Journal

There is also a perception that their wealth will be better protected in countries with a stronger rule of law.

The New York Times

The economy badly needs less government interference, more room for private enterprise, and a stronger rule of law.

The Economist

Xu Zhiyong is a founder of the New Citizens Movement, which advocates a stronger rule of law and demands that party officials disclose their wealth.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a strong rule", ensure the context clearly indicates what makes the rule 'strong' (e.g., strict enforcement, significant consequences).

Common error

Avoid using "a strong rule" when the rule is merely well-intentioned but lacks actual enforcement or support. A rule's strength lies in its implementation, not just its design.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a strong rule" primarily functions as a noun phrase. It consists of the indefinite article 'a', the adjective 'strong' modifying the noun 'rule'. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, this phrase is commonly used to describe a regulation or principle that is robust and strictly enforced.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a strong rule" is a frequently used phrase to describe a regulation or principle that is strictly enforced. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across various contexts. It's crucial to ensure the context clarifies what makes the rule 'strong', such as strict enforcement or significant consequences. While the phrase is generally neutral, its formality depends on the surrounding text and source. Common synonyms include "a firm regulation", "a strict regulation", and "a rigorous standard", each adding nuanced meanings to the concept of a rule's strength. Therefore, "a strong rule" indicates an actively enforced, high-impact standard or principle.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a firm regulation

Emphasizes the binding and enforced nature of the rule.

a strict regulation

Highlights the lack of flexibility and severe consequences for violations.

a rigorous standard

Focuses on the high level of precision and adherence required.

a stringent guideline

Implies a detailed and demanding set of instructions.

an enforced policy

Stresses the active implementation and oversight of the rule.

a binding principle

Highlights the fundamental and non-negotiable character of the rule.

a mandatory provision

Focuses on the compulsory and obligatory nature of the rule.

an ironclad agreement

Suggests an unbreakable and unchangeable rule.

a powerful directive

Emphasizes the authority and impact of the rule.

an unyielding law

Highlights the inflexibility and permanence of the legal rule.

FAQs

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

You can use "a strong rule" to describe regulations or principles that are firmly enforced and have significant impact. For instance, "The company has "a strong rule" against conflicts of interest to maintain its ethical standards."

What are some synonyms for "a strong rule"?

Alternatives include "a firm regulation", "a strict regulation", or "a rigorous standard", each emphasizing a slightly different aspect of the rule's strength or nature.

Is it always positive to have "a strong rule"?

Not necessarily. While "a strong rule" often implies positive attributes like consistency and fairness, it can also be perceived negatively if it's seen as overly rigid or inflexible. The context is crucial in determining whether it's a beneficial attribute.

What distinguishes "a strong rule" from a guideline or suggestion?

While guidelines and suggestions are advisory, "a strong rule" implies a mandatory requirement with defined consequences for non-compliance. Its strength comes from its enforceability and impact on behavior.