# ground rule

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/ground-rule
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

The basic rules or standards; basic principles.

## Examples

- We need to set a ground rule for this game.
- Before the meeting started, the manager established a ground rule that everyone must listen without interrupting.
- The committee established a firm ground rule that all future negotiations must remain transparent and respectful to ensure a productive outcome for both parties.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.