golden rule

Register · Neutral Neutral — appropriate in most situations, both spoken and written, without sounding too casual or too stiff. CEFR B1

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Figurative meaning

the most important rule or principle to follow

Why this phrase?

Not made of gold; 'golden' means most important.

Example

“The golden rule of investing is don't risk what you can't afford to lose.”

Dictionary details

Tags

Expressions connected by reviewed component words or topic tags.

fall in line Neutral · CEFR B1

to obey or accept the rules and expectations set by a group or authority

out of the question Neutral · CEFR B1

completely impossible or not permitted

sign on the dotted line Neutral · CEFR B1

to commit yourself formally by signing an agreement

take it or leave it Neutral · CEFR B1

accept an offer exactly as presented or reject it entirely

the high point Neutral · CEFR B1

the best or most enjoyable part of an event or period

the name of the game Informal · CEFR B1

the central, most important aspect of a situation

Source methodology

Meanings, register, CEFR, and examples come from the reviewed dictionary record. Expression notes may describe a reviewed present-day word picture or a background note; they are not presented as verified etymology.

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