RULES
according to Hoyle
according to the rules; in keeping with the way it is normally done. (Refers to the rules for playing games. Edmond Hoyle wrote a book about games. This expression is usually used for something other than games.)That's wrong. According to Hoyle, this is the way to do it.The carpenter said, "This is the way to drive a nail, according to Hoyle. "
by the numbers and by the book
according to the rules. (Informal.)He always plays the game by the numbers. He never cheats.I want all my people to go by the numbers. This place is totally honest.We always go by the book in matters like this.
go into effect and take effect
[for a law or a rule] to become effective.When does this new law go into effect?The new tax laws wont go into effect until next year.This law takes effect almost immediately.
out of order
not following correct parliamentary procedure.I was declared out of order by the president.Ann inquired, "Isn't a motion to table the question out of order at this time?"
set a precedent
to establish a pattern; to set a policy that must be followed in future cases.I'll do what you ask this time, but it doesn't set a precedent.We've already set a precedent in matters such as these.
do's and don'ts
n. the rules; the things that should be done and those that should not be done.I must admit that a lot of the do's and don'ts don't make much sense to me either.Better learn the do's and don'ts immediately.
get with the program
in. to follow the rules; to do what you are supposed to do.Come on, Mark. Get with the program. Do what you are told.Jane just can't seem to get with the program. She has to do everything her way, right or wrong.
regs
n. regulations.Follow the regs or pay the penalty.There is a list of regs posted on the back of your door.