bright line
1. noun A clear division, typically between two things. As a new parent, you learn that there's not a bright line between looking out for your child's welfare and being overprotective. It's a bright line! You're either borrowing, which implies permission, or you're stealing! A: "How could I possibly have a crush on Brian? He's such a jerk! I can't stand him." B: "Well, there's not always a bright line between love and hate."
2. adjective Describing a clear standard, especially in legal situations. Typically hyphenated in this usage. There's a bright-line rule for a reason. We can't apply the law inconsistently, changing our minds from case to case! The bright-line standards I deal with in the courtroom are sometimes a relief from the ambiguity and uncertainty of everyday life. After the economic crash, several bright-line rules were established.
bright-line
Especially in law, defined by clear terms, standards, and rules so as to avoid ambiguity or room for interpretation. Used especially as "bright-line rule" or "bright-line standard." After the economic crash, several bright-line rules were established. The bright-line standards I deal with in the courtroom are sometimes a relief from the ambiguity and uncertainty of everyday life. There's a bright-line rule for a reason. We can't apply the law inconsistently, changing our minds from case to case!
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