five-second rule
The 'five-second rule' is a widely recognized concept applied both in everyday life, particularly concerning food hygiene, and in various sports contexts to impose quick decision-making.
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Definition
B2Food Hygiene
(informal)The belief that food dropped on the ground remains safe to eat if picked up within five seconds.
Example
- She dropped her sandwich but picked it up quickly, citing the five-second rule.
- According to the five-second rule, the cookie should still be fine to eat.
C1Basketball
(technical, sports)A rule that a player must either pass, shoot, or dribble the ball within five seconds when closely guarded.
Example
- The referee called a five-second violation because the player held onto the ball too long.
- He had to pass the ball quickly to avoid breaking the five-second rule.
C1Basketball
(technical, sports)A rule requiring a player to release the ball within five seconds when throwing it in from out of bounds.
Example
- The team lost possession due to a five-second violation during the throw-in.
- She quickly passed the ball to avoid the five-second rule.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "five-second rule":