ENGLISH
REFERENCE

ground rule

idiom
Meaning

The basic rules or standards; basic principles.


Examples
SIMPLE

We need to set a ground rule for this game.

CONTEXTUAL

Before the meeting started, the manager established a ground rule that everyone must listen without interrupting.

COMPLEX

The committee established a firm ground rule that all future negotiations must remain transparent and respectful to ensure a productive outcome for both parties.

Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    as a rule

    In general; most often.

  2. 02

    bright-line rule

    A clear-cut rule, so that it is easy to make a decision.

  3. 03

    common ground

    A characteristic or interest shared by multiple people or systems; any belief, etc. held in common.

  4. 04

    ear to the ground

    The practice or characteristic of carefully gathering information; a state or mindset of attentiveness.

  5. 05

    eyes on the ground

    One or more observers in an area of interest.

  6. 06

    facts on the ground

    The situation in reality as opposed to in the abstract.

  7. 07

    from the ground up

    From the beginning; starting with the basics, foundation, or fundamentals.

  8. 08

    get off the ground

    To succeed or begin to succeed.

© 2026 English Reference