a general law, rule, principle, or criterion by which something is judged, a collection or list of sacred books accepted as genuine, a group of literary works that are generally accepted as representing a field

in canon, out of canon, loose canon

canon law, canon fodder, canon ball

Formal and Informal Expressions of canon

In different contexts, you can replace 'canon' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'principle, criterion, standard' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'rule, guideline' is a commonplace synonym.

canon: Explore its Definition & Usage

canon Definition

1a general law, rule, principle, or criterion by which something is judged
2a collection or list of sacred books accepted as genuine
3a group of literary works that are generally accepted as representing a field

Using canon: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "canon" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
The scientific canon has been established through rigorous testing and experimentation.
Example
The biblical canon includes the Old and New Testaments.
Example
The Western literary canon includes works by Shakespeare, Austen, and Dickens.
Example
The film was praised for its adherence to the canon of the original comic book series.

canon Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for canon

Antonyms for canon

Idioms Using canon

in canon
in accordance with the accepted principles or rules of a field
Example
The new film is not in canon with the original trilogy, much to the disappointment of fans.
out of canon
not in accordance with the accepted principles or rules of a field
Example
The alternate ending is out of canon with the rest of the series.
loose canon
a person who behaves in an unpredictable or uncontrolled way, often causing damage
Example
The CEO was seen as a loose canon, making rash decisions without consulting the board.

Phrases with canon

canon law
the body of laws and regulations made by or adopted by ecclesiastical authority, especially the Roman Catholic Church
Example
The priest studied canon law at the seminary.
canon fodder
people or things that are regarded as useful or expendable in supporting a particular cause or purpose
Example
The soldiers were treated as mere canon fodder by their commanders.
canon ball
a large heavy metal or stone ball used as a projectile from a cannon
Example
The castle walls were breached by a barrage of canon balls.

Origins of canon

from Greek 'kanōn', meaning 'rule'

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Summary: canon in Brief

The term 'canon' [ˈkænən] refers to a general law, rule, principle, or criterion by which something is judged. It can also refer to a collection of sacred books or a group of literary works that are generally accepted as representing a field. Examples include the scientific canon, the biblical canon, and the Western literary canon. Idioms like 'in canon' and 'out of canon' denote adherence to or deviation from accepted principles, while 'loose canon' describes someone who behaves unpredictably.