make it a rule

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'make it a rule' is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express the idea that a specific behavior should be a requirement or a given in a particular situation, either as an external regulation or in a more informal context. For example, "At our family gatherings, we always make it a rule to take turns talking about what happened in the last year."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"We make it a rule not to be around".

The New York Times

"If you make it a rule, everyone becomes comfortable with it.

The New York Times - Sports

You'll probably do that anyway, but you may as well make it a rule.

The Guardian

"I always make it a rule never to look at anything until I'm starring in it," she pertly explains.

The New York Times - Arts

All columnists should probably make it a rule to take off the week after a Presidential election.

The New Yorker

Make it a rule to use a number of ideas each year which have come from your consumers.

The Guardian

"But why make it a rule for everyone?" Some programs also monitor adolescents by requiring them to undergo polygraphs.

The New York Times - Magazine

It's very kind of you to ask, but I make it a rule never to marry people I haven't met.

The Guardian

THE Nobel powers-that-be apparently make it a rule (nobody knows why) to award the economics prize only for work that is at least three decades old.

The Economist

I think it speaks directly to the reader's concern that The Times doesn't make it a rule to publish excerpts from Times Books.

The New York Times

Not sure how that rule came about, but Duckie dancing to Otis Redding and Pretty in Pink and The Kinks in Juno make it a rule.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "make it a rule", ensure the context clearly defines who is establishing the rule and for whom it applies. Be specific about the scope of the rule to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "make it a rule" for situations where flexibility is required. This phrase implies a strict adherence, so it is unsuitable for contexts needing adaptability.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "make it a rule" functions as a directive or declaration used to establish a principle, guideline, or regulation. Ludwig AI confirms this as a correct and usable phrase. It indicates that a specific behavior should be standard practice.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Wiki

30%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

4%

Social Media

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "make it a rule" is a widely used phrase to establish a guideline or regulation. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and versatile across various contexts, ranging from personal habits to organizational policies. While its register is generally neutral, it frequently appears in news, media, and Wiki sources. When using the phrase, clarity and specificity are key to avoid ambiguity. Remember that this phrase suggests a structured way of doing things that is not applicable in all contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

make it a habit

Emphasizes the development of a personal routine or custom.

establish a principle

Focuses on setting a fundamental belief or doctrine.

adopt a policy

Refers to the formal acceptance of a specific procedure.

set as a standard

Highlights the act of establishing something as a model.

set a precedent

Implies creating an example for future actions.

institute a practice

Highlights the creation of a customary way of doing things.

formulate a guideline

Implies creating a recommended course of action.

lay down a law

Suggests establishing a formal regulation or command.

resolve to always

Focuses on individual determination to act consistently.

decree as mandatory

Refers to an order or command that must be obeyed.

FAQs

How can I use "make it a rule" in a sentence?

You can use "make it a rule" to express that something should always be done in a certain way. For example, "I "make it a rule" to always read the book before watching the movie adaptation."

What are some alternatives to "make it a rule"?

Some alternatives include "establish a principle", "adopt a policy", or "make it a habit", depending on the specific meaning you want to convey.

Is it too formal to use "make it a rule" in casual conversation?

While "make it a rule" can be used in formal contexts, it's also perfectly acceptable in casual conversation to emphasize the importance you place on a particular behavior or guideline.

What's the difference between "make it a rule" and "set a precedent"?

"Make it a rule" implies establishing a consistent practice, whereas "set a precedent" suggests an action that may influence future decisions but isn't necessarily a binding rule.