by the book

Cultural  

1. According to established rules: “The inspector will be visiting the factory today, so let's make sure we do everything by the book.”

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by the book Idioms  

1. Strictly according to the rules, as in Our trip leader is going by the book, allowing us to wander off only for short periods. Shakespeare already used the term figuratively in Romeo and Juliet (1:5): “You kiss by the book.” Also see by the numbers.

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Example Sentences

But if you do this, you must do it right—professionally, with restraint, by the book, in the full spirit of the law.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 29, 2026

The company, which underwent several acquisitions, including by the book retailer Barnes & Noble, was later renamed GameStop.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 16, 2026

Tonga coach Kristian Woolf defended the team doctors, saying everything was "done by the book".

From Barron's • Nov. 3, 2025

“I still stand by the book and learned so much about myself during the process of it,” Price said.

From Salon • Sep. 2, 2025

Then, if you have any liking for the road, go over the ground covered by the book, spending a few days in Chicago, Detroit, and Indianapolis.

From "The Devil in the White City" by Erik Larson

Related Words

• binding
• demanding
• draconian
• exacting
• forceful
• harsh
• inflexible
• ironclad
• rigorous
• severe
• stiff
• strict
• tough