rule of the road
noun phrase
: a customary practice (such as driving always on a particular side of the road or yielding the right of way) developed in the interest of safety and often subsequently reinforced by law
especially
: any of the rules making up a code governing ships in matters relating to mutual safety
Examples of rule of the road in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
The need for transatlantic cooperation to set the economic rules of the road in the face of a rising China prompted the launching of the U.S.-EU Trade and Technology Council.
—
Max Bergmann, Foreign Affairs, 22 Aug. 2022
The first 2024 presidential votes were cast today — but the rules of the road are still changing before our eyes.
—Mike Allen, Axios, 20 Sep. 2024
Industry leaders continue to call for clear rules of the road from the SEC.
—Tonya Evans, Forbes, 1 Oct. 2024
When skateboarding, your child should follow the rules of the road—be aware of their surroundings, avoid skating in the street or crowded areas, skate on the right side of sidewalks and paths, and watch for changes in pavement conditions such as potholes or water.
—Cheryl Fenton, Parents, 23 Sep. 2024
See all Example Sentences for rule of the road 
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Max Bergmann, Foreign Affairs, 22 Aug. 2022
The first 2024 presidential votes were cast today — but the rules of the road are still changing before our eyes.
—Mike Allen, Axios, 20 Sep. 2024
Industry leaders continue to call for clear rules of the road from the SEC.
—Tonya Evans, Forbes, 1 Oct. 2024
When skateboarding, your child should follow the rules of the road—be aware of their surroundings, avoid skating in the street or crowded areas, skate on the right side of sidewalks and paths, and watch for changes in pavement conditions such as potholes or water.
—Cheryl Fenton, Parents, 23 Sep. 2024
See all Example Sentences for rule of the road
Dictionary Entries Near rule of the road
Cite this Entry
“Rule of the road.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rule%20of%20the%20road. Accessed 14 Nov. 2024.
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