Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
design rule
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "design rule" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts related to guidelines or principles that govern the design of products, systems, or processes. Example: "When creating a new product, it's essential to follow the design rule that prioritizes user experience."
✓ Grammatically correct
Science
News & Media
Formal & Business
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
60 human-written examples
The basic design rule is not to use just color to cue something.
News & Media
Mr. Browning said the state would revise its ballot design rule in time for the presidential election in 2008.
News & Media
"My No 1 design rule of anything I do," he tweeted, "is that Kim has to like it".
News & Media
In a sense, when one buys a Wally, one is buying into Wally's World, an elite clique, wherein weekend racing, summer soirees and minimalist Italian design rule.
News & Media
So consider giving back data as a design rule and practice.
News & Media
Composed of various buffer materials with thickness optimized by the design rule based on NA engineering.
Science
Then, we develop a design rule for the bendability optimization of flexible optical nanoelectronics.
Science
The design rule used in this layout is MagnaChip 0.35-μm technology.
Science
A design rule is not available to resolve this problem and the Murray's law is not valid for curved daughters.
Science
ArF excimer laser (λ = 193 nm) lithography is a potentially applicable technology for the sub-0.18 μm design rule.
Science
The model is also proposed as a design rule for optimizing the energy absorption of this class of composites.
Science
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When describing a system or process, clearly state the "design rule" being followed to ensure clarity and adherence to standards.
Common error
Avoid stating a "design rule" too broadly. Ensure it's specific and applicable to the context you're discussing to prevent misinterpretations.
Source & Trust
82%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "design rule" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It identifies a specific guideline, principle, or standard that governs a particular design process or system. This is supported by Ludwig and the examples provided, which demonstrate its usage in diverse contexts ranging from technology to construction.
Frequent in
Science
54%
News & Media
28%
Formal & Business
18%
Less common in
Academia
0%
Wiki
0%
Reference
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, "design rule" is a noun phrase widely used to define guidelines, standards, or principles within various design processes. As supported by Ludwig, it's grammatically correct and most commonly found in scientific and technical contexts, with a formal and scientific register. It plays a crucial role in ensuring consistency, reliability, and compliance across diverse fields. When using "design rule", it's important to provide specific and contextual information. The analysis of sources reveals that authoritative sources like Nanoscale Research Letters and ScienceDirect frequently employ the phrase. Although less prevalent in informal contexts, its significance in technical and academic domains makes it a valuable term for precise communication.
More alternative expressions(10)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
engineering standard
Emphasizes the application of established engineering principles and specifications.
planning guideline
Focuses on providing guidance within a planning process or framework.
established norm
Highlights the customary and accepted standard within a specific field.
governing principle
Suggests a fundamental rule or belief that influences decisions and actions.
industry standard
Refers specifically to standards commonly accepted and followed within a particular industry.
technical specification
Focuses on detailed requirements for a technical product or system.
accepted practice
Highlights a commonly used and recognized method or procedure.
code of practice
Implies a set of rules and guidelines designed to ensure a certain standard of conduct or operation.
procedural requirement
Emphasizes the necessary steps or actions that must be followed in a process.
standard operating procedure
Refers to a specific set of instructions for carrying out a routine task.
FAQs
How is "design rule" used in technical documentation?
In technical documentation, "design rule" refers to a specific guideline or constraint that must be followed during the design or development process. It helps ensure consistency, reliability, and compliance with standards.
What's the difference between a "design rule" and a "best practice"?
A "design rule" is a specific, often mandatory, guideline for design. A "best practice" is a recommended technique or method that's generally considered superior but might not be strictly enforced.
What are some alternatives to saying "design rule"?
You can use alternatives like "engineering standard", "planning guideline", or "governing principle" depending on the context.
How can I ensure my "design rule" is effectively communicated?
To ensure your "design rule" is effectively communicated, make sure it is clearly defined, specific, and justified with a rationale. Provide examples and illustrations to enhance understanding.
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
82%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested