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

It likely contains guidelines around dress code, and if your boss isn’t adhering to them, you can go to HR.

From MarketWatch

The probe looked into whether Summers and other members of Harvard’s faculty and administration had interactions with Epstein that violated its guidelines on accepting gifts and should be subject to disciplinary action.

From Salon

The Israeli Diaspora Ministry says that since its guidelines came into effect, it has been contacted by 117 NGOs.

From BBC

They do not provide formal treatment recommendations, which are issued separately in official guidelines.

From Science Daily

"Clear guidelines in the package insert and on the label, such as the duration of use, warning signs, and possible drug interactions, help consumers make informed decisions."

From Science Daily

Related Words

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