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

While there are clear guidelines as to what you are looking for, Dr Wong says there is still a lot of variability.

From BBC

Many doctors lamented how once-clear vaccine guidelines have become muddled and confusing.

From Los Angeles Times

Aslef said its members would walk out on 3 October and refuse to work non-contractual overtime from 21 September because of the company's "persistent refusal" to adhere to guidelines for disciplinary proceedings.

From BBC

Oilfield Witness gathered all exemption requests since 2021, which showed the agency repeatedly approving permits that failed to comply with its guidelines.

From Salon

The latest report found 37% of deaths of people with learning disabilities or autism involved some form of delay in care or treatment, while 28% reported instances where diagnosis and treatment guidelines were not met.

From BBC

Related Words

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