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.

There’s no hard and fast rule for how quickly, or not, airlines have to act if they are going to cancel a mistake fare.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 22, 2026

While there is no hard and fast definition of what constitutes a TACO, several Wall Street professionals who spoke with MarketWatch for this story agreed with our list of nine specific events.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 8, 2026

You warned that what we believed to be hard and fast rules protecting the free press were really just soft norms.

From Slate • Feb. 24, 2026

Vigorous exercise makes you breathe hard and fast.

From BBC • Jan. 20, 2026

Seemed that no matter how hard and fast I tried to run away from either one of ’em, I ended up carrying it right along without even knowing I’d done it.

From "Elijah of Buxton" by Christopher Paul Curtis

hard-and-fast

Example Sentences

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