Hard and fast

adjective

Fixed, cannot be changed.

There are no hard and fast rules.
Visual representation of "hard and fast" - Fixed, cannot be changed

Often appears as...

  • hard and fast rules
  • hard and fast decision
adjective

Happening quickly and decisively; quickly and firmly.

The government acted hard and fast to control the situation.
Visual representation of "hard and fast" - Happening quickly and decisively; quickly and firmly

Often appears as...

  • act hard and fast
  • work hard and fast
adjective

Fixed, cannot be changed.

There are no hard and fast rules.
Visual representation of "hard and fast" - Fixed, cannot be changed

Often appears as...

  • hard and fast rules
  • hard and fast decision
adjective

Happening quickly and decisively; quickly and firmly.

The government acted hard and fast to control the situation.
Visual representation of "hard and fast" - Happening quickly and decisively; quickly and firmly

Often appears as...

  • act hard and fast
  • work hard and fast
Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "hard and fast"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Not Absolute

Sometimes used to indicate that there may be exceptions, despite seeming strict.

Illustration for Not Absolute
Even with hard and fast rules, there can be special cases.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Cultural Nuance

In different cultures, what's considered 'hard and fast' can vary widely.

Illustration for Cultural Nuance
What's a hard and fast tradition here may not be so in another country.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Emotional Weight

Can indicate frustration when someone feels constricted by rules.

Illustration for Emotional Weight
She disliked the hard and fast dress code.
LampPro Tip 1/3

Not Absolute

Sometimes used to indicate that there may be exceptions, despite seeming strict.

Illustration for Not Absolute
Even with hard and fast rules, there can be special cases.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Cultural Nuance

In different cultures, what's considered 'hard and fast' can vary widely.

Illustration for Cultural Nuance
What's a hard and fast tradition here may not be so in another country.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Emotional Weight

Can indicate frustration when someone feels constricted by rules.

Illustration for Emotional Weight
She disliked the hard and fast dress code.
LampPro Tip 1/3

Not Absolute

Sometimes used to indicate that there may be exceptions, despite seeming strict.

Illustration for Not Absolute
Even with hard and fast rules, there can be special cases.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Cultural Nuance

In different cultures, what's considered 'hard and fast' can vary widely.

Illustration for Cultural Nuance
What's a hard and fast tradition here may not be so in another country.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Emotional Weight

Can indicate frustration when someone feels constricted by rules.

Illustration for Emotional Weight
She disliked the hard and fast dress code.
Visual representation of the word "Hard and fast"

Never forget "Hard and fast"

Humans forget easily. That's why you should download WordUp: Smart reminders, word games, AI practice, and much more!

Download on the App StoreGet it on Google PlayGet it from MicrosoftGet it on AppGallery
Chrome

WordUp Chrome Extension

As you browse the web instantly look up words you don’t know.

Get Chrome Extension
Back to top