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

“It seems to be delaying the rate of brain aging,” said Dr. Tan, but getting people to follow these guidelines on their own, in any large-scale way, would be a massive undertaking.

From Los Angeles Times

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

Related Words

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