working rule
- noun
- The team follows a working rule for project deadlines.
Examples
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The team followed a simple working rule to stay on schedule despite the project's challenges.
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Although imperfect, the working rule was effective in ensuring safety at the construction site.
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Engineers established a working rule for testing all parts before assembly.
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We established some working rules for our meetings.
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In our department, we established a few working rules to ensure everyone understands their roles.
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The project manager outlined some working rules that everyone must adhere to for a smooth workflow.
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Following these working rules will help us complete the tasks efficiently, even if they are not set in stone.
Synonyms
∞
1.0
An instruction or law that tells people what to do
344
3.1
A general rule that helps you decide what to do
3
4.7
A rule or idea that helps people choose the right action
How Authoritative
Surface Forms
Morphology
The meaning is directly derivable from combining 'working' (operational, functioning) with 'rule' (guideline): it denotes a rule that works or is practically usable rather than being final or perfect. This is a straightforward adjective+noun composition following normal English composition patterns, so a B1 learner who knows the constituent words should grasp the meaning without prior exposure.
Etymology
The expression working rule comes from everyday work language: working means 'works' or is 'in use', and rule means a simple instruction. So a working rule is a practical instruction you follow on the job even if it is not perfect, which is why it means a guideline that is good enough for work.