guideline

American  

[gahyd-lahyn] / ˈgaɪdˌlaɪn /

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.

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guideline British  

/ ˈɡaɪdˌlaɪn /

noun

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

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Etymology

Origin of guideline

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

Example Sentences

Apart from a generic message telling him he had breached community guidelines, Morgan wasn't told specifically why he was banned.

From BBC

However, the government has previously told the BBC the authority is breaching government guidelines by using an alternative method to classify its roads.

From BBC

Officials said that many travel records prior to 2021 were deleted in accordance with the department’s data retention guidelines.

From Los Angeles Times

Mergers of direct competitors are presumed to be illegal when the combined company would have more than 30% market share, according to Justice Department guidelines.

From The Wall Street Journal

The healthcare company King was a member of have previously said it's important that members understand its cost-sharing model and membership guidelines.

From BBC

Related Words

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