guideline

[ gahyd-lahyn ]

noun

1. any guide or indication of a future course of action:

   guidelines on the government's future policy.

2. a lightly marked line used as a guide, as in composing a drawing, a typed page, or a line of lettering.
3. a rope or cord that serves to guide one's steps, especially over rocky terrain, through underground passages, etc.
4. a rope or wire used in guiding the movement of stage scenery or curtains being raised or lowered.

guideline

/ ˈɡaɪdˌlaɪn /

noun

1. a principle put forward to set standards or determine a course of action

Word History and Origins

Origin of guideline¹

An Americanism dating back to 1775–85; guide + line ¹

Example Sentences

"Understanding these risks allows us to develop better guidelines to protect maternal and child health."

From Science Daily

In contrast, a white woman with similar signs of hemorrhage “appears to have received care in line with the guidelines.”

From Los Angeles Times

After being refused free IVF, she campaigned to change the guidelines on who can access treatment across the East Midlands.

From BBC

"This should help in the effort to develop guidelines that will decide which patients need to get surgery, and what type of surgery, or what other therapy may need to happen," Gupta said.

From Science Daily

One study found that up to 50% of patients with chronic low back pain are receiving inappropriate care that does not align with best practice guidelines.

From Salon

Related Words

• code
• ground rule
• guidance
• instruction
• protocol
• rule