ENGLISH
REFERENCE

prescribed

adj. · v.
US //pɹisˈkɹaɪbd// UK //pɹɪskɹˈaɪbd// pre·scribed
  1. 1 required by rules (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Formal

    following a set of rules or a specific way of doing things that has been officially decided.

    stipulated by official rules, regulations, or established procedures.

    Example

    All students must complete the prescribed reading before the first seminar.

    Example

    The committee rejected the proposal because it failed to follow the prescribed format for environmental impact assessments.
  2. 2 medical advice (v.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Medicine

    when a doctor tells you to take a specific medicine or treatment.

    to advise or authorize the use of a medicine or treatment for someone, especially in writing.

    Example

    The doctor prescribed a course of antibiotics to clear up the infection.

    Example

    The specialist prescribed a rigorous physical therapy regimen to ensure the patient regained full mobility after the surgery.

    Usage

    The verb is transitive and requires a direct object, usually the medication or treatment.
  3. 3 setting a rule (v.)
    C1 Advanced Formal Academic Law

    to state officially what should be done in a particular situation.

    to lay down a rule or dictate a course of action to be followed.

    Example

    The law prescribes heavy fines for companies that pollute the river.

    Example

    The international treaty prescribes the specific conditions under which humanitarian aid must be distributed during a conflict.

Last updated June 20, 2026