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

• nonguidance noun
• preguidance noun
• self-guidance 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

“The focus will be squarely on guidance, particularly any shift in tone around the timing of further tightening, confidence in achieving sustainably higher inflation, and tolerance for yen weakness,” StoneX’s Matt Simpson says in commentary.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 28, 2026

The wireless carrier posted solid first-quarter earnings, hiked its guidance, and said it had added subscribers during what’s typically a tough period for the telecom industry.

From Barron's • Apr. 27, 2026

They made use of existing facilities, equipment, and guidance provided by the university and collaborating research groups.

From Science Daily • Apr. 27, 2026

“Transformation efforts and strong first-quarter performance give Verizon the confidence” to move to this new guidance, the company noted in its release.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 27, 2026

“Ahem, er, good Father Abbot, we all respect your word and look to you for guidance, but really...I mean...”

From "Redwall" by Brian Jacques

Related Words

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