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Guide Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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guide

[ɡaɪd ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

travel

A person who shows the way to others, especially through unfamiliar or complex places.

Synonyms

escort, leader, navigator.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
guide

Used when someone provides directions or advice, often in a touristic or educational setting.

  • The tour guide led us through the ancient ruins.
  • She served as a guide for the new employees, helping them understand the company's policies.
leader

Refers to someone who leads or commands a group, usually in a formal or organized setting like business, politics, or movements.

  • The leader of the group made the final decision.
  • During the crisis, the team needed a strong leader.
escort

Often used when someone accompanies another for protection, safety, or formality, sometimes with a connotation of supervision.

  • A security guard escorted the VIPs to their seats.
  • The police provided an escort for the parade.
navigator

Specifically used for someone who is skilled in determining the course or position, often in marine or aerospace contexts.

  • The navigator plotted the course across the ocean.
  • In the spaceship, the navigator played a crucial role in determining the flight path.

Examples of usage

  • He worked as a guide in the national park.
  • The tour guide led the group through the historic city.
Context #2 | Verb

instruct

To show or indicate the way to someone. To direct or lead someone in a particular direction or along a particular path.

Synonyms

direct, instruct, lead.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
guide

Use when you want to give someone advice or show them the right way without actually controlling their actions. It is softer and suggests assistance rather than authority.

  • The tour guide will guide us through the museum.
  • Parents guide their children in making good decisions.
direct

Use when you are telling someone exactly what to do with more authority and control over actions. It implies supervising the entire process.

  • The traffic officer will direct the cars to the detour route.
  • She directed the team to complete the project by Friday.
lead

Use when you are in charge and making decisions. It often implies being in front, setting examples, and inspiring others to follow.

  • The CEO will lead the company through the upcoming changes.
  • She was chosen to lead the team because of her experience.
instruct

Use in educational or formal situations where you are teaching someone how to do something specific. It suggests giving detailed steps or procedures.

  • The teacher will instruct the students on how to solve the math problem.
  • He instructed his assistant on the duties of the new job.

Examples of usage

  • Can you guide me to the nearest gas station?
  • She guided her team to victory with her strategic planning.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'guide'

The word 'guide' originates from the Old French term 'guider', which means 'to guide, lead'. It has been used in English since the 14th century. The concept of guiding others has been essential throughout history, from early explorers guiding their companions through unknown territories to modern-day tour guides leading tourists through famous landmarks.

See also: guidability, guidance, guidebook, guided, guideline, guidelines, guideposts, guides, guiding, misguidance, misguide, misguided.

Word Frequency Rank

This word ranks #1,875, placing it within important intermediate vocabulary. Learning it will significantly improve your ability to express yourself in English.