Law Idioms

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behind bars

Meaning: to be in jail or prison

Example: Before the end of this year, Harrison will be behind bars for his crimes. Read more ➺


stand your ground

Meaning: not retreat

Example: We stood our ground on the footpath, and then eventually, all the cows moved away. Read more ➺


zero tolerance

Meaning: denial to allow rebellious activities, usually by rigid and strict application of the rules;

Example: There is zero tolerance towards any gender bias in this company. Read more ➺


rule of thumb

Meaning: a principle that is kept to

Example: As a rule of thumb, I do not start a new project on Fridays. Read more ➺


de facto

Meaning: existing in fact

Example: English is de facto the common language of much of the world today. Read more ➺


de jure

Meaning: having a right or existence as stated by law

Example: The president aims to create a de jure one-party state. Read more ➺


go by the book

Meaning: Follow rules, procedures, or laws exactly without deviation.

Example: The officer goes by the book, even in emergencies. Read more ➺


the benefit of the doubt

Meaning: regards a person as innocent unless confirmed otherwise

Example: Let's give her the benefit of the doubt and assume that she is right. Read more ➺


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