Guidelines: meaning, definitions and examples

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guidelines

 

[ ˈɡaɪdlaɪnz ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

rules

Guidelines are official recommendations or advice that indicate how something should be done or what is acceptable in a particular situation.

Synonyms

advice, instructions, recommendations.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
guidelines

Use this term when referring to a set of general rules or principles that provide direction on how to handle a specific situation or complete a task. Usually applied in a professional or formal setting.

  • The company issued new guidelines for remote work to ensure productivity.
  • Please follow the safety guidelines while operating the machinery.
instructions

This term pertains to specific steps or directions on how to do something. Often used for detailed, step-by-step guidance.

  • The instructions for assembling the furniture are inside the box.
  • Please follow the instructions carefully to install the software.
recommendations

This word is used to suggest what someone should do based on opinions or professional expertise. It can imply a formal endorsement or suggestion.

  • The doctor gave me some recommendations on improving my diet.
  • We followed the consultant's recommendations to enhance our workflow.
advice

This term is used when someone offers their opinion or suggestion to help another person make a decision or solve a problem. It can be formal or informal.

  • I need your advice on how to deal with this difficult client.
  • Her advice on financial planning was invaluable.

Examples of usage

  • These guidelines will help you complete the project successfully.
  • The company has strict guidelines for employee behavior.
Context #2 | Noun

design

In design, guidelines are horizontal or vertical lines that help align elements in a layout for a more organized and visually appealing result.

Synonyms

alignment markers, grid lines.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
guidelines

General rules, principles, or advice given to guide actions or behavior. Commonly used in professional, academic, or organizational settings when referring to a set of recommendations or protocols.

  • The company has strict guidelines for maintaining customer privacy.
  • Please follow the guidelines when submitting your project.
grid lines

Lines that divide a space into equal parts, usually used in design, architecture, or cartography for precision in alignment and measurement.

  • The grid lines on the map help in accurately locating positions.
  • Designers often use grid lines to ensure elements are properly aligned.
alignment markers

Specific references or indicators used to position or align elements accurately. Often used in technical, engineering, or manufacturing contexts.

  • Make sure the alignment markers are matched before tightening the screws.
  • The blueprint includes alignment markers for proper installation.

Examples of usage

  • Use the guidelines to ensure that your text and images are properly aligned.
  • The graphic designer followed the guidelines to create a balanced composition.
Context #3 | Noun

health

Health guidelines are recommendations provided by health authorities to promote well-being and prevent illnesses or diseases.

Synonyms

health advice, precautions, recommendations.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
guidelines

Used to refer to general rules or principles that provide direction for actions and decisions, especially in formal or organizational settings.

  • The company released new guidelines for remote work.
  • Follow the safety guidelines when operating the machinery.
recommendations

Used to suggest actions or decisions that are advised based on experience or expertise, often in professional or casual advice settings.

  • The teacher gave some recommendations on which books to read.
  • Her recommendations were very helpful in planning our trip.
health advice

Used to refer to suggestions or tips provided by health professionals to promote well-being and prevent illness.

  • The doctor gave me some health advice on managing stress.
  • Always listen to your health advice to stay in good shape.
precautions

Used to describe actions taken ahead of time to prevent possible danger or harm, often in contexts of safety and health.

  • It's important to take precautions when travelling during a pandemic.
  • He took all necessary precautions to avoid an accident.

Examples of usage

  • Follow the dietary guidelines to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
  • The CDC has issued guidelines for preventing the spread of infectious diseases.

Translations

Translations of the word "guidelines" in other languages:

🇵🇹 diretrizes

🇮🇳 दिशानिर्देश

🇩🇪 Richtlinien

🇮🇩 pedoman

🇺🇦 керівні принципи

🇵🇱 wytyczne

🇯🇵 ガイドライン

🇫🇷 directives

🇪🇸 directrices

🇹🇷 yönergeler

🇰🇷 지침

🇸🇦 إرشادات

🇨🇿 pokyny

🇸🇰 usmernenia

🇨🇳 指南

🇸🇮 smernice

🇮🇸 leiðbeiningar

🇰🇿 нұсқаулықтар

🇬🇪 მიმართულებები

🇦🇿 təlimatlar

🇲🇽 directrices

Etymology

The word 'guidelines' originated in the mid-18th century from the word 'guide' combined with 'lines'. It emphasizes the idea of providing direction or advice through written or visual cues. Over time, the term has evolved to encompass a wide range of contexts, from rules and recommendations in various fields to design principles for layout and alignment. Today, guidelines play a crucial role in setting standards and promoting best practices in different areas of expertise.

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

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #3,479, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.