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Showing results for hard-and-fast.
Definitions

hard-and-fast

[hahrd-n-fast, -fahst] / ˈhɑrd nˈfæst, -ˈfɑst /
ADJECTIVE
strict
Synonyms
WEAK
absolute binding carved in stone compulsory conclusive decisive dictated exacting final inflexible irrevocable mandatory set set in concrete unalterable unbending written

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

This is why the broadcast limit is not really a hard-and-fast limit.

From BBC • Mar. 30, 2026

It’s not a hard-and-fast rule because that would be wrong too.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 18, 2026

Also, California has few hard-and-fast rules on residency.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 25, 2026

I’m not necessarily sold on hard-and-fast rules when it comes to age; it also depends on your risk tolerance, expected longevity and how long you intend to work.

From MarketWatch • Dec. 11, 2025

But my parents didn't have hard-and-fast rules about our career aspirations.

From "Americanized" by Sara Saedi