directive

American  

[dih-rek-tiv, dahy-] / dɪˈrɛk tɪv, daɪ- /

adjective

1. serving to direct; directing.

   a directive board.

2. Psychology. pertaining to a type of psychotherapy in which the therapist actively offers advice and information rather than dealing only with information supplied by the patient.

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noun

1. an authoritative instruction or direction; specific order.

   a new directive by the president on foreign aid.

directive British  

/ daɪ-, dɪˈrɛktɪv /

noun

1. an instruction; order

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adjective

1. tending to direct; directing

2. indicating direction

Other Word Forms

• self-directive adjective

Etymology

Origin of directive

First recorded in 1425–75; late Middle English word from Medieval Latin word dīrēctīvus. See direct, -ive

Example Sentences

Maxim, 49, said the health ministry directive was only a recommendation.

From Barron's

That directive sent a clear message that the justices expect the lower courts to declare the law unconstitutional, at least as applied to counselors who offer only talk therapy.

From The Wall Street Journal

They say the high prices were in part driven by a directive from Noem, which instructed the agency to purchase all the planned new detention sites in a 30-day span.

From The Wall Street Journal

These conversations make it appear that the heavy use of English is not BTS’ personal wish but rather a directive given to them.

From Salon

Judge Rita F. Lin ordered the administration to stop applying the president’s directive and provide a compliance report by April 6.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• decree
• edict
• injunction
• mandate
• memo
• memorandum
• message
• notice
• order
• regulation
• ruling