Synonyms of ground rules

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

Synonyms & Similar Words

• rules
• regulations
• laws
• codes
• values
• standards
• instructions
• bylaws
• guidelines
• principles
• regs
• constitutions
• restrictions
• ordinances
• morals
• statutes
• directories
• commandments
• directions
• decalogues
• acts
• guides
• prohibitions
• practices
• fundamentals
• habits
• axioms
• maxims
• commands
• directives
• dictates
• traditions
• decrees
• orders
• precepts
• manners
• customs
• conventions
• edicts
• charges
• formulas
• bans
• blueprints
• fiats
• behests
• mores
• ways
• proscriptions
• canons
• interdictions

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of ground rules

Hosts can set ground rules for maximum occupancy, quiet hours, and pets, as well as specify key return procedures and whether guests may hold events or host commercial photo shoots. — Charlotte Reck, CNN Money, 22 Oct. 2026

The White House and its allies are lonely in their insistence that AI development in America must accelerate without governments setting ground rules. — Ashley Gold, semafor.com, 25 Sep. 2026

The officials, who spoke on condition of anonymity under ground rules set by the White House, did not elaborate. — ABC News, 18 Sep. 2026

Capital investment aside, even fundamental ground rules collapse under strain, Archer said. — Jasmin Malik Chua, Footwear News, 16 Sep. 2026

Representatives of Bonta and Paramount Skydance came together late last week to set ground rules for Monday’s meeting, which was to involve Paramount Skydance Chief Executive David Ellison. — Meg James, Los Angeles Times, 24 Aug. 2026

Resident Nancy Clifton-Hawkins was an amazing moderator who quickly laid out the goals and ground rules. — Terri Daxon, Oc Register, 20 Aug. 2026

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