ground rules

noun

plural of ground rule
as in rules
a statement spelling out the proper procedure or conduct for an activity before the debate begins, let's lay out some ground rules

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of ground rules Consider the 2012 General Agreement in Colombia, which established guidelines for future negotiations, an agenda, and ground rules that gave the talks structure and stability. — Matt Waldman, Foreign Affairs, 13 Aug. 2026 To control the dangerous unfettered use of magic, an oversight council established ground rules on what is considered forbidden magic and the knowledge of its existence. — Kalai Chik, Forbes.com, 7 Aug. 2026 New York state set a one-year pause on building AI data centers to establish some ground rules. — Yasmin Vossoughian, NBC news, 23 July 2026 Tips for Getting Along With Your In-Laws Some in-laws are harder to deal with than others, and some are flat-out impossible, but experts agree that most relationships can flourish when certain ground rules apply. — Margaret Renkl, Parents, 23 July 2026 Should couples set spending ground rules before moving in together? — Ashley Lynch, Sacbee.com, 21 July 2026 So, start with laying down some ground rules everyone can agree to. — R. Eric Thomas, Mercury News, 6 July 2026 The official spoke on the condition anonymity on ground rules set by the White House. — CBS News, 13 June 2026 Bills were introduced in Springfield over the spring to impose ground rules on data center development. — The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 12 June 2026
Recent Examples of Synonyms for ground rules
  1. rules
  2. regulations
  3. laws
  4. codes
Noun
  • In seeking a new trial, Anthony’s attorneys have argued that the June proceedings were marred by strict courtroom rules and improper jury instructions.
    — ABC News, ABC News, 20 Aug. 2026
  • Federal rules generally require more credentials and inspections for boats carrying more than six passengers for hire.
    — Martin Goillandeau, CNN Money, 20 Aug. 2026
Definition of rules
Noun
  • However, federal regulations passed in the late 1990s prohibit the government from sharing information that could reveal that the person getting deported applied for asylum.
    — CBS News, CBS News, 20 Aug. 2026
  • Since vintage base ball league teams agree to abide by the same rules used in 1858, only 37 rules are applied to the sport, as compared to today’s numerous regulations guiding the players of today’s baseball games.
    — Philip Potempa, Chicago Tribune, 20 Aug. 2026
Definition of regulations
Noun
  • The Maryland Data Privacy Act was one of several laws passed in this year's legislative session aimed at curbing federal immigration enforcement in the state.
    — Dennis Valera, CBS News, 21 Aug. 2026
  • In response, the CFTC has said that the Commodity Exchange Act gives it sole power over swaps and futures contracts, preempting state laws.
    — Camila Grigera Naón, Fortune, 21 Aug. 2026
Definition of laws
Noun
  • The Irish will always be able to run the ball, but without those two cheat codes, more pressure falls on Carr and another group of unproven receivers to make chunk plays.
    — Ralph D. Russo, New York Times, 18 Aug. 2026
  • Today, those identification codes are printed on a product’s packaging, separate from the barcode.
    — David Goldman, CNN Money, 18 Aug. 2026
Definition of codes

Browse Nearby Words

ground rule
ground rules
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Cite this Entry

“Ground rules.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/ground%20rules. Accessed 25 Aug. 2026.

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