set a rule

USAGE SUMMARY

"set a rule" is a correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It means to establish a specific guideline or standard that must be followed. Example: The teacher set a rule that all students must turn off their cell phones during class.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

40 human-written examples

They set a rule: make nothing up.

The New Yorker

I set a rule for myself: the tweet was sacred text; no world existed beyond it.

The New York Times - Food

When his midterm grades came back with two F's, his uncle set a rule: No Fortnite on school nights.

The Washington Post

He set a rule: he would make a hinge to a new scene only when someone onscreen passed through a door.

The New Yorker

Not that he must: nobody set a rule that serious mainstream jazz musicians have to make music that comes from deep within and goes over most people's heads.

The New York Times - Arts

I set a rule that I would not publish anything about an episode involving abusive behaviour unless I had secured utterly reliable accounts.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

20 human-written examples

Actually we have already recognized the Export Control regulations as setting a rule of national policy overriding New York contract law.

Harvard University

6. Set a family rule for sugary foods.

The Washington Post

Set a bedtime rule for your kids and yourself.

WikiHow

Set a few rules.

WikiHow

Set up a rule chart and set it up where you have meetings.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When you "set a rule", make sure it is clear, concise, and enforceable to avoid misunderstandings and ensure compliance.

Common error

Avoid vague or ambiguous wording when you "set a rule". Always provide specific details and examples to ensure everyone understands what is expected.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "set a rule" functions as a verb phrase, where "set" is the verb and "a rule" is the object. It indicates the act of establishing or creating a guideline or regulation. Ludwig's AI confirms this is a common English phrase.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Wiki

20%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "set a rule" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression that signifies the establishment of a specific guideline or standard. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and common usage. While "set a rule" is used across various contexts, it appears most frequently in News & Media and Wiki. When using this phrase, it's crucial to ensure clarity and enforceability. Alternative phrases include "establish a regulation" and "lay down a guideline". Remember, an effective rule is clear, relevant, and well-communicated.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Establish a regulation

Regulation implies a formal rule.

Lay down a guideline

Guideline suggests a less strict rule.

Define a standard

Standard refers to a required level of quality or achievement.

Implement a policy

Policy often implies a broader, organizational rule.

Introduce a procedure

Procedure denotes a set of actions.

Create a norm

Norm suggests a social rule or expectation.

Formulate a principle

Principle refers to a fundamental truth or proposition.

Enact a requirement

Requirement suggests something necessary.

Designate a specification

Specification describes detailed requirements.

Prescribe a condition

Condition refers to a prerequisite.

FAQs

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

You can use "set a rule" to describe establishing a guideline or standard, such as, "The coach "set a rule" prohibiting sleepovers before a game".

What is another way to say "set a rule"?

Alternatives to "set a rule" include "establish a regulation", "lay down a guideline", or "define a standard".

Is it better to "set a rule" or "make a rule"?

"Set a rule" and "make a rule" are often interchangeable. "Set a rule" implies establishing something formal or official, while "make a rule" can be more general.

What makes a rule effective when I "set a rule"?

An effective rule should be clear, enforceable, and relevant to the situation. It should also be communicated clearly to everyone who needs to follow it.