By the book
adjective
In an official or approved manner, usually following rules or procedures very closely.
She always does her homework by the book.
Often appears as...
- do by the book
- operate by the book
Usage tips
Idiomatic
adverb
In a way that follows the rules or instructions exactly.
He ran the project by the book.
Often appears as...
- follow by the book
- teach by the book
Usage tips
Idiomatic
adjective
In an official or approved manner, usually following rules or procedures very closely.
She always does her homework by the book.
Often appears as...
- do by the book
- operate by the book
Usage tips
Idiomatic
adverb
In a way that follows the rules or instructions exactly.
He ran the project by the book.
Often appears as...
- follow by the book
- teach by the book
Usage tips
Idiomatic
Definition 1 of 2
Pro Tip 1/3Adherence to Rules
This phrase emphasizes strict adherence to established procedures, often in bureaucratic or formal contexts.
The auditor went by the book and found several discrepancies.
Pro Tip 2/3Lack of Flexibility
It implies that a person is not willing to improvise or deviate from established standards, even when a situation might suggest it.
Despite the unusual circumstances, she insisted on doing everything by the book.
Pro Tip 3/3Negative Connotation
Sometimes implies being overly strict or unimaginative, especially when flexibility could lead to better outcomes.
His by-the-book approach often frustrates his creative team members.
Pro Tip 1/3Adherence to Rules
This phrase emphasizes strict adherence to established procedures, often in bureaucratic or formal contexts.
The auditor went by the book and found several discrepancies.
Pro Tip 2/3Lack of Flexibility
It implies that a person is not willing to improvise or deviate from established standards, even when a situation might suggest it.
Despite the unusual circumstances, she insisted on doing everything by the book.
Pro Tip 3/3Negative Connotation
Sometimes implies being overly strict or unimaginative, especially when flexibility could lead to better outcomes.
His by-the-book approach often frustrates his creative team members.
Pro Tip 1/3Adherence to Rules
This phrase emphasizes strict adherence to established procedures, often in bureaucratic or formal contexts.
The auditor went by the book and found several discrepancies.
Pro Tip 2/3Lack of Flexibility
It implies that a person is not willing to improvise or deviate from established standards, even when a situation might suggest it.
Despite the unusual circumstances, she insisted on doing everything by the book.
Pro Tip 3/3Negative Connotation
Sometimes implies being overly strict or unimaginative, especially when flexibility could lead to better outcomes.
His by-the-book approach often frustrates his creative team members.
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