Guidelines Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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guidelines
[ˈɡaɪdlaɪnz ]
Definitions
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?
| 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.
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| instructions |
This term pertains to specific steps or directions on how to do something. Often used for detailed, step-by-step guidance.
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| 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.
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| 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.
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Examples of usage
- These guidelines will help you complete the project successfully.
- The company has strict guidelines for employee behavior.
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?
| 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.
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| grid lines |
Lines that divide a space into equal parts, usually used in design, architecture, or cartography for precision in alignment and measurement.
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| alignment markers |
Specific references or indicators used to position or align elements accurately. Often used in technical, engineering, or manufacturing contexts.
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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.
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?
| 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.
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| recommendations |
Used to suggest actions or decisions that are advised based on experience or expertise, often in professional or casual advice settings.
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| health advice |
Used to refer to suggestions or tips provided by health professionals to promote well-being and prevent illness.
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| precautions |
Used to describe actions taken ahead of time to prevent possible danger or harm, often in contexts of safety and health.
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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
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Education
- In education, these rules help teachers create clear paths for students to follow, enhancing learning effectiveness.
- Many school systems implement guidelines to promote fair assessments among students, ensuring equity in grading.
- Educational guidelines often outline curriculum standards, ensuring all students receive a consistent quality of education.
Health and Safety
- Health guidelines are put in place by organizations to ensure the community's well-being, like during food preparation or in hospitals.
- These rules were vital during public health crises, helping manage responses to diseases and safety protocols.
- Workplace safety guidelines minimize risks and are essential for protecting employees in various industries.
Pop Culture
- Movies often have behind-the-scenes guidelines for how the production team should operate, keeping everything on track.
- Video games typically include guidelines to ensure players understand the rules and objectives, enhancing gameplay experience.
- Social media and influencers often follow specific guidelines to promote responsible online interactions among their followers.
Technology
- Software companies create user-experience guidelines to design websites and apps that are easy and enjoyable to use.
- Technological development often follows guidelines to ensure safety and security in online transactions, protecting user data.
- Coding guidelines help programmers write clearer, more maintainable code, making teamwork on projects smoother.
Origin of 'guidelines'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from 'guide' meaning to show the way, combined with 'line' which refers to directions.
- It first appeared in English around the late 1970s, initially referring to drawn lines meant to direct actions.
- Over time, it evolved to encompass broader advice, not just physical lines.
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.