ground rule
noun
1
: a sports rule adopted to modify play on a particular field, court, or course
2
: a rule of procedure
ground rules for selecting a superintendent—
Amer. School Board Jour.
Amer. School Board Jour.Examples of ground rule in a Sentence
before the debate begins, let's lay out some ground rules
Recent Examples on the Web
Leaders can foster this approach by setting clear ground rules for discussions, encouraging open and respectful dialogue and reframing conflict as an opportunity for alignment and growth.
—Leyda Lazo, Forbes, 19 Mar. 2025
The law also allows universities to set some ground rules about when, where, and how these activities can take place, but those rules can’t favor one viewpoint over another.
—Tiffani Jackson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 19 Mar. 2025
Teams should establish norms that encourage idea sharing without fear of reprisal, including ground rules like listening to understand, asking clarifying questions and refraining from interruptive or dismissive behaviors.
—Anna Barnhill, Forbes, 10 Mar. 2025
Before heading out, Jackie lays down some strict ground rules for Heavenly, including a no-profanity policy.
—Shelby Stewart, Essence, 27 Jan. 2025
See All Example Sentences for ground rule
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.
Leyda Lazo, Forbes, 19 Mar. 2025
The law also allows universities to set some ground rules about when, where, and how these activities can take place, but those rules can’t favor one viewpoint over another.
—Tiffani Jackson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 19 Mar. 2025
Teams should establish norms that encourage idea sharing without fear of reprisal, including ground rules like listening to understand, asking clarifying questions and refraining from interruptive or dismissive behaviors.
—Anna Barnhill, Forbes, 10 Mar. 2025
Before heading out, Jackie lays down some strict ground rules for Heavenly, including a no-profanity policy.
—Shelby Stewart, Essence, 27 Jan. 2025
See All Example Sentences for ground rule
Cite this Entry
“Ground rule.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ground%20rule. Accessed 20 Apr. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share