# guideline

/ˈɡaɪdˌɫaɪn/ (US) · /ɡˈaɪdlaɪn/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/guideline
Updated: 2026-05-02

## Definition

a rule or piece of advice that tells you how to do something correctly. It is usually a suggestion rather than a strict law.

For teachers: a general rule, principle, or piece of advice. Often used in plural to describe a set of non-binding instructions for conduct or procedure.

## Examples

- The government issued a new guideline for healthy eating.
- The company provides a clear guideline for how employees should handle customer complaints on social media.
- While these ethical guidelines are not legally enforceable, they serve as a vital framework for researchers navigating the complexities of human subject trials.

## Usage notes

- Commonly used in the plural form ('guidelines') when referring to a complete set of instructions.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.