Guideline — Meaning, Definition & Synonyms

noun /ˈgīd-ˌlīn/ guide·line

Meaning & Definition of Guideline

Guideline (noun)

  1. a line by which one is guided
  2. a cord or rope to aid a passer over a difficult point or to permit retracing a course
  3. an indication or outline of policy or conduct

Guideline (noun) — Senses, Synonyms & Antonyms

  1. something usually in writing that shows or tells how something should be done

    "The government has issued new guidelines for following a healthy and balanced diet."

    "Here are some basic guidelines for helping you choose a dishwasher."

    similar: blueprint, canon, formula, guide, standard, bylaw, ground rule, reg, regulation, rule, code, constitution, decalogue, directory, act, law, ordinance, statute, behest, charge, command, commandment, decree, dictate, direction, directive, edict, fiat, instruction, order, axiom, fundamental, maxim, precept, moral, principle, value, ban, interdiction, prohibition, proscription, restriction, convention, custom, habit, manners, mores, practice, tradition, way

Synonyms, Thesaurus & Another Word for Guideline

The most common words with a similar meaning to Guideline:

blueprint, canon, formula, guide, standard, bylaw, ground rule, reg, regulation, rule, code, constitution, decalogue, directory, act, law, ordinance, statute, behest, charge, command, commandment, decree, dictate, direction, directive, edict, fiat, instruction, order, axiom, fundamental, maxim, precept, moral, principle, value, ban, interdiction, prohibition

Origin & Etymology of Guideline

First known use: 1785

Vocabulary Lists & Topics for Guideline

Frequently Asked Questions about Guideline

What does "Guideline" mean?

"Guideline" means a line by which one is guided. As a noun, it is defined as: a line by which one is guided.

What is another word for "Guideline"?

Other words for "Guideline" include blueprint, canon, formula, guide, standard, bylaw, ground rule and reg. The best synonym depends on which meaning of "Guideline" you intend.

What are different ways to say "Guideline"?

There are 50 words and phrases with a similar meaning to "Guideline". Common alternatives include blueprint, canon, formula, guide, standard, bylaw, ground rule, reg, regulation and rule.

How do you use "Guideline" in a sentence?

Examples of "Guideline" in a sentence: "The government has issued new guidelines for following a healthy and balanced diet."; "Here are some basic guidelines for helping you choose a dishwasher.".

Is "Guideline" a noun, verb, or adjective?

"Guideline" is a noun.

Is "Guideline" useful for IELTS, TOEFL, and other English exams?

As a B2-level word, "Guideline" is typical of Cambridge B2 First (FCE), IELTS band 5.5–6.5, TOEFL iBT 72–94, PTE Academic 59–75, TOEIC Listening & Reading 785+.

How do you pronounce "Guideline"?

"Guideline" is pronounced /ˈgīd-ˌlīn/ and divided into syllables as guide·line.

What is the origin of the word "Guideline"?

First known use: 1785.