unwritten rule

USAGE SUMMARY

"unwritten rule" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used to refer to a type of informal rule or code of behavior that has not been officially established or written down. For example, "In the office, there is an unwritten rule that you don't criticize your coworkers in public."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

It's an unwritten rule".

The New York Times

It is an unwritten rule between blokes".

The Guardian - Opinion

This is an unwritten rule of working.

The New York Times

More than an unwritten rule, that's baseball reality.

The New York Times - Sports

The unwritten rule, however, was not to ask questions.

Independent

O.K., it's time to get out the unwritten rule book.

The New York Times

Enthusiastic Protestants seem to have flouted that unwritten rule.

The Economist

The unwritten rule: once a chamar, always a chamar.

The Guardian - Opinion

The Sooner There is an unwritten rule about Jerry Schmidt.

The New York Times - Sports

On the argument that it is an "unwritten rule" you do not do that: "I know one unwritten rule: we have to win.

The New York Times

Asked Sunday if perhaps Solo had violated an unwritten rule with the team, Sundhage said, "I think it will become some sort of an unwritten rule".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When referring to an "unwritten rule", consider briefly explaining its origin or rationale to provide clarity for those unfamiliar with the context.

Common error

Avoid using "unwritten rule" to describe laws or regulations, which are explicitly written and enforced. The phrase is best suited for informal, customary practices.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "unwritten rule" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig examples demonstrate its use in describing informal conventions and understood protocols. It identifies a norm that is not formally documented but still governs behavior.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

98%

Wiki

1%

Science

1%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "unwritten rule" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to describe informal customs or conventions that are widely understood and followed but not formally documented. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is correct and usable in written English. Appearing most frequently in news and media, it carries a neutral tone suitable for various contexts. When using "unwritten rule", it's important to ensure that the context clearly indicates an informal norm rather than a codified law or regulation. Alternatives like "unspoken rule" or "tacit agreement" can be used to add nuance, but the core concept remains the same: an understanding that exists without explicit articulation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unspoken rule

Replaces "unwritten" with "unspoken", emphasizing the lack of verbalization.

tacit agreement

Focuses on the agreement aspect, implying a silent understanding.

implicit understanding

Highlights the understanding that exists without being explicitly stated.

gentleman's agreement

Implies an agreement based on honor and trust, especially in business or sports.

accepted practice

Focuses on the customary way of doing things within a specific context.

customary norm

Highlights the normative aspect, suggesting a standard of behavior.

established convention

Emphasizes the long-standing nature of the unspoken rule.

understood protocol

Implies a set of procedures or behaviors that are generally known and followed.

code of conduct

Focuses on behavior, suggesting an informal set of guidelines for action.

social more

Highlights the broader societal expectations that guide behavior.

FAQs

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

You can use "unwritten rule" to describe a custom or tradition that is not written down but is generally accepted and followed, such as: "There's an "unwritten rule" in the office not to use the executive bathroom."

What is an example of an "unwritten rule" in sports?

An example of an "unwritten rule" in baseball is that you don't steal a base when your team is leading by a large margin in the late innings. This is considered disrespectful to the opposing team.

What can I say instead of "unwritten rule"?

Alternatives include "unspoken rule", "tacit agreement", or "implicit understanding". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to break an "unwritten rule"?

Breaking an "unwritten rule" can have social consequences, ranging from mild disapproval to serious repercussions, depending on the context and the importance of the rule. Consider the potential impact before violating a well-established custom.