hard and fast
/ˌhɑːd ən ˈfɑːst
/(Of a rule or a distinction made) fixed and definitive: there are no hard and fast rules about that...
- The programme is mainly aimed at secondary school students, but there are no hard and fast rules and a number of primaries also take part.
- I don't think there should be any hard and fast rules about this issue.
- As far as age limits are concerned, there are no hard and fast rules.
Synonyms
definite, fixed, set, strict, rigid, binding, stringent, rigorous, clear-cut, cast-iron, established, inflexible, immutable, unalterable, invariable, unvarying, unchangeable, unchanging, incontestable, incontrovertible, uncompromising
See parent entry: hard