guideline

[gahyd-lahyn]

noun

1. any guide or indication of a future course of action.

   guidelines on the government's future policy.

2. a lightly marked line used as a guide, as in composing a drawing, a typed page, or a line of lettering.

3. a rope or cord that serves to guide one's steps, especially over rocky terrain, through underground passages, etc.

4. a rope or wire used in guiding the movement of stage scenery or curtains being raised or lowered.

guideline

/ ˈɡaɪdˌlaɪn /

noun

1. a principle put forward to set standards or determine a course of action

Word History and Origins

Origin of guideline¹

An Americanism dating back to 1775–85; guide + line ¹

Example Sentences

A Travelodge spokesperson said it recognised the need for clarity and transparency in pricing and is working with Google to ensure its adverts are clear and comply with the ASA's guidelines.

Read more on BBC

We like the equalizer, guidelines and the level playing field for protection socialism promises.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

"We also need to consider how other medications interact with exercise to develop better guidelines for doctors to help people lower chronic disease risk."

Read more on Science Daily

“However, on the basis of the evidence, the AAP is unable to recommend bed sharing under any circumstances,” the guidelines state.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

In fact, the FBI’s employment eligibility guidelines say all employees must obtain a “Top Secret” clearance in order to work at the agency following a background check.

Read more on Salon

Related Words

• code 
• ground rule 
• guidance 
• instruction 
• protocol 
• rule