hard rule

USAGE SUMMARY

"hard rule" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used to describe a rule that must be strictly followed. For example, "The hard rule in our office is no personal phone calls during working hours."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

31 human-written examples

The hard rule is best: don't pay ransoms.

The Economist

There is no hard rule, and so lawsuits are uncommon.

The New York Times

She seems to view Twitter's 140-character limit as rather like the other checks on her power: an annoyance to be sidestepped rather than a hard rule.

The Economist

"We have unlisted numbers in this industry, and we've got a long heritage in which we have always taken a harsh and hard rule on protecting the privacy of our customers' information".

The New York Times

Thus our threshold is an approximation only and should not be considered as hard rule.

Journal of Applied Volcanology

Supposedly the SEC is contemplating a hard rule on the separation of analysts and bankers.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

27 human-written examples

There are no hard rules for poems.

The New York Times

In the hard rules of fate.

The New York Times - Books

The FSA has won plaudits for an approach based more on principles than hard rules.

The Economist

There should be hard rules determining when regulators have to seize a troubled financial firm.

The New York Times

And there really are a few hard rules, some things that Mondrian will not do (or never did, at least).

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "hard rule" when emphasizing the absolute necessity of adhering to a specific guideline or regulation. It conveys a sense of non-negotiability and strict enforcement.

Common error

Avoid using "hard rule" when referring to guidelines that are subject to interpretation or have exceptions. This can create confusion and undermine the intended message. Instead, opt for terms like "general guideline" or "standard practice".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "hard rule" primarily functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. For example, "There is no hard rule, and so lawsuits are uncommon."

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

30%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "hard rule" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that signifies a strict and inflexible guideline or regulation. As highlighted by Ludwig AI, it is typically used to emphasize the mandatory nature of a rule, leaving little room for deviation. Its usage is prevalent across diverse contexts, including news media, scientific publications, and online wikis. When employing this phrase, it's important to ensure that the context aligns with its intended meaning, avoiding its application to flexible guidelines or suggestions. By understanding its implications and adhering to best practices, writers can effectively convey the importance of strict adherence to specified regulations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

strict regulation

Emphasizes the formal and controlled aspect of the rule.

firm guideline

Highlights the resolute and unwavering nature of the rule.

rigid principle

Focuses on the inflexibility and foundational aspect of the rule.

inflexible standard

Underscores the lack of flexibility in the required level of quality or achievement.

fixed policy

Points to the established and unchangeable nature of the rule within an organization or system.

unbending requirement

Stresses the mandatory and uncompromising aspect of the rule.

ironclad law

Emphasizes the unbreakable and legally binding nature of the rule.

non-negotiable term

Highlights the unalterable conditions or stipulations of an agreement.

mandatory provision

Focuses on the obligatory and stipulated nature of the rule.

stringent condition

Emphasizes the strict and demanding nature of the rule.

FAQs

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

You can use "hard rule" to describe a strict or inflexible guideline. For example, "The "strict regulation" is that all employees must attend the safety training."

What phrases are similar to "hard rule"?

Similar phrases include "firm guideline", "rigid principle", and "inflexible standard". Each phrase conveys a sense of strictness and lack of flexibility.

Is it appropriate to use "hard rule" in formal writing?

Yes, "hard rule" is appropriate in formal writing when you want to emphasize the strict and non-negotiable nature of a regulation or guideline. However, consider the audience and context to ensure it aligns with the overall tone.

What is the difference between "hard rule" and "general guideline"?

A "hard rule" implies a strict and inflexible regulation, while a "general guideline" suggests a recommendation or suggestion that may allow for some flexibility or interpretation. The choice depends on the level of enforcement and the specific context.