rule of engagement
noun
a directive issued by a military authority controlling the use and degree of force, especially specifying circumstances and limitations for engaging in combat.
rules of engagement
-
pluralof rule of engagement.plural
The grammatical form denoting more than one person, place, thing, or idea.
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.
Hamilton revealed after the race that Ferrari "don't have rules of engagement, and whether or not that would change anything from Charles' side, I don't know".
From BBC ● Nov. 3, 2026
It will not, however, address bilateral issues like China's territorial disputes with the Philippines, Jing insisted, saying it would instead focus on "rules of engagement" for the waterway.
From Barron's ● Jul. 23, 2026
As warfare automation increases, its use is being guided more by battlefield objectives than by codified rules of engagement.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jun. 19, 2026
The neurotic self-policing about the supposed rules of engagement has given way to something that looks more like confidence.
From Salon ● May 30, 2026
Which brought up the obvious matter of rules of engagement.
From "Fallout: Spies, Superbombs, and the Ultimate Cold War Showdown" by Steve Sheinkin
