“Guidelines” is a noun that refers to a set of general rules, principles, or pieces of advice that provide direction on how to do something. Here are some synonyms and their analyses:
1. Instructions
- Meaning: Detailed information telling someone how to do something. For example, “The instructions on the package showed how to assemble the furniture.”
- Usage difference: “Instructions” are usually more specific and step - by - step than “guidelines.” They focus on the exact procedure to achieve a particular task. In contrast, guidelines are more like broad principles that give an overall sense of direction. For example, cooking guidelines might suggest using fresh ingredients and proper seasoning, while instructions for a specific recipe would tell you precisely how much of each ingredient to use and the exact order of steps to follow.
2. Directives
- Meaning: An official or authoritative instruction. For example, “The manager issued new directives regarding the company's safety procedures.”
- Usage difference: “Directives” often carry a sense of authority and must - follow rules. They are usually given by someone in a position of power. In comparison to “guidelines,” directives are more binding and less flexible. Guidelines can be more like suggestions to help you make good decisions, while directives tell you exactly what you should or must do.
3. Recommendations
- Meaning: A suggestion or piece of advice about what is the best thing to do. For example, “The doctor's recommendations included a healthy diet and regular exercise.”
- Usage difference: “Recommendations” emphasize advice based on expertise or experience. They are not as forceful as directives. In comparison to “guidelines,” recommendations are more personal and often come from an individual's point of view. Guidelines are more general and may be developed by an organization or a group for a wide range of people to follow. For example, a book review might have recommendations for other readers, while guidelines for writing a book review would cover more general principles like objectivity and clarity.
4. Criteria
- Meaning: A principle or standard by which something is judged or decided. For example, “The criteria for awarding the scholarship included academic achievement and community service.”
- Usage difference: “Criteria” are used to evaluate or make decisions. In contrast to “guidelines,” they are more about setting a standard for judgment. Guidelines help you along the way of doing something, while criteria help you determine whether something meets a particular standard or not. For example, guidelines for a project might tell you how to plan and execute it, while criteria for evaluating the project would tell you what makes it a successful or unsuccessful project.