hard and fast rule

USAGE SUMMARY

"hard and fast rule" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to describe a rule or regulation that is strictly adhered to and cannot be broken or changed. For example, "You must follow the hard and fast rule that employees are not allowed to bring food into the office".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

42 human-written examples

Still, there is no hard and fast rule.

The Guardian

"It's not a hard and fast rule," Mr. Leschack said.

The New York Times

But as a hard and fast rule, it is too easy to get around.

The New York Times

"There's no hard and fast rule as to where people are.

The Guardian

The librarians in Somers were loath to enact a hard and fast rule.

The New York Times

There is no hard and fast rule for who is offering the best bargains.

The New York Times - Travel

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

16 human-written examples

Is there a hard-and-fast rule?

The New York Times

"Not a hard-and-fast rule".

The New York Times - Magazine

I don't have a hard-and-fast rule about it.

The New York Times

Once again, there simply is no hard-and-fast rule.

The Economist

There's no magic formula or hard-and-fast rule.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "hard and fast rule" when you want to emphasize that a rule is strict, inflexible, and must be followed without exception.

Common error

Avoid using "hard and fast rule" when describing guidelines that are subject to change or interpretation. This phrase implies a level of rigidity that might not be appropriate for evolving situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "hard and fast rule" functions as a noun phrase that modifies another noun, indicating that a particular rule is strict, inflexible, and not subject to exceptions. Ludwig AI confirms this widespread usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Wiki

27%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "hard and fast rule" is a commonly used expression that signifies a strict, inflexible guideline or regulation. Ludwig AI affirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage across various domains, particularly in News & Media, Wiki, and Science. When using this phrase, it's important to convey that the rule is not subject to change or interpretation. While the phrase is generally neutral in register, it serves to emphasize the mandatory nature of the rule in question. Remember to consider the context and ensure that the rigidity implied by "hard and fast rule" aligns with the situation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

strict guideline

Emphasizes the rigid and unyielding aspect of the rule.

firm principle

Highlights the established and unwavering nature of the rule.

inflexible regulation

Focuses on the unchangeable and rigid nature of the regulation.

rigid standard

Stresses the strict and unbending nature of the standard.

fixed policy

Underscores the established and unalterable aspect of the policy.

set requirement

Highlights the mandatory and non-negotiable nature of the requirement.

unbreakable convention

Conveys the idea of a deeply entrenched and inviolable custom.

ironclad agreement

Focuses on the binding and unalterable nature of the agreement.

non-negotiable term

Emphasizes that the term is not open to discussion or modification.

established procedure

Highlights the formal and unvarying nature of the procedure.

FAQs

How can I use "hard and fast rule" in a sentence?

You can use "hard and fast rule" to describe a rule that is strict and must be followed. For example, "There's no "exception to the rule": safety regulations are a "hard and fast rule"".

What does "hard and fast rule" mean?

A "hard and fast rule" is a principle or guideline that is inflexible and must be followed without deviation. It signifies a clear and strict requirement.

Which is correct: "hard and fast rule" or "tough rule"?

"Hard and fast rule" and "tough rule" are similar, but "hard and fast rule" implies a greater degree of inflexibility and is often used for well-established conventions. "Tough rule" is less formal and suggests a difficult but perhaps not immutable guideline.

What can I say instead of "hard and fast rule"?

Alternatives to "hard and fast rule" include "strict guideline", "firm principle", or "inflexible regulation", depending on the specific context.