guidance

American  

[gahyd-ns] / ˈgaɪd ns /

noun

1. the act or function of guiding; leadership; direction.

   Synonyms:

   government, control, supervision, conduct, management

2. advice or counseling, especially that provided for students choosing a course of study or preparing for a vocation.

3. supervised care or assistance, especially therapeutic help in the treatment of minor emotional disturbances.

4. something that guides.

5. the process by which the flight of a missile or rocket may be altered in speed and direction in response to controls situated either wholly in the projectile or partly at a base.

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guidance British  

/ ˈɡaɪdəns /

noun

1. leadership, instruction, or direction

2. 1. counselling or advice on educational, vocational, or psychological matters

   2. ( as modifier )

      the marriage-guidance counsellor

3. something that guides

4. any process by which the flight path of a missile is controlled in flight See also guided missile

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Other Word Forms

Derived Forms

• preguidance
  noun
• self-guidance
  noun
• nonguidance
  noun

Etymology

Origin of guidance

First recorded in 1765–75; guide + -ance

Explanation

Guidance can mean steering (like the navigation system in a satellite) or the act of providing direction (like a guidance counselor does). Back in the 1530s, guidance started out meaning "the process of directing conduct," similar to what we think of when we think of parents, mentors, or counselors. If you've ever asked a friend for advice on what to wear, you were seeking their guidance. But guidance also applies to physical direction. We might use a global positioning system (GPS) for guidance when we drive. Years ago, sailors relied on the stars for guidance. Sherpas provide guidance to climbers hiking Mt. Everest so they don't get lost.

Example Sentences

Separately, the company cut its guidance for the fiscal year ending Aug. 31 given the ongoing uncertainty in the Middle East and recent deterioration in the performance of its North America unit.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 10, 2026

In August 2022, the then-Conservative government updated guidance on how local authorities could help control litter associated with hot food takeaways.

From BBC • Jun. 10, 2026

Hence, focus is on the BOJ’s guidance regarding future policy rate path at next week’s meeting, Yamada adds.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 10, 2026

In guidance on its website, the Bank of England says that neither it and its staff endorse or advertise any products.

From BBC • Jun. 9, 2026

“Okay, well, someone else from the guidance department. And of course I’ll be there to fully support you as well.”

From "Maybe He Just Likes You" by Barbara Dee

Related Words

• advice
• direction
• instruction
• intelligence
• leadership
• management
• navigation
• supervision
• teaching