Prescriptive

usgb/prɪˈskrɪptɪv/
adjective

Giving exact rules, directions, or instructions about how something should be done.

Religious laws are often prescriptive, telling followers what they should and shouldn't do.
Visual representation of "prescriptive" - Giving exact rules, directions, or instructions about how something should be done.

Often appears as...

  • prescriptive rules
  • prescriptive standards

Usage tips

Formal

Definition 1 of 3
Visual representation of "prescriptive"
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Rule Imposition

Indicates rules being strictly set, which you must follow closely without room for personal interpretation.

Illustration for Rule Imposition
His prescriptive approach to managing the team left no space for creativity.
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Expectation Setting

Used to set clear expectations about how a task should be performed.

Illustration for Expectation Setting
The teacher's prescriptive instructions helped us complete the project correctly.
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Standardization

Favors uniformity by enforcing the same rules or procedures for everyone involved.

Illustration for Standardization
The company's prescriptive dress code ensures all employees look professional.
Word comparison image

Compare with

authoritariandictatorialdogmaticdomineerimperativeobligatoryprescriberegulatory
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Visual representation of the word "Prescriptive"

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