Definition
This is a four-character idiom (成语) that literally means 'golden statute and jade decree'. It refers to an inviolable rule or immutable law — something regarded as absolutely authoritative and not to be questioned. Unlike the English 'golden rule' (which can carry a moral or religious nuance), 金科玉律 is most often used in legal, regulatory, or rigidly held personal principles. You can use it to emphasize that a particular rule or standard is treated as unchangeable.
f.e.
golden ruleimmutable precept
Examples
- ，金科玉律，。Zài wǒmen gōngsī, zhè tiáo guīzé jiù shì jīn kē yù lǜ, shuí dōu bù néng wéifǎn.In our company, this rule is a golden rule that no one can violate.
- 金科玉律，。Fǎlǜ bú shì jīn kē yù lǜ, tā shì suízhe shèhuì biànhuà ér gǎibiàn de.The law is not an immutable precept; it changes along with society.
- 金科玉律。Tā bǎ zhè tiáo jīngyàn dàngzuò wéirén chǔshì de jīn kē yù lǜ.He treats this piece of experience as a golden rule for getting along with others.
Browse more HSK 7-9 words or search the full 43,000-word dictionary.