English idiom

by the book

Register · Neutral CEFR B2

Post

Figurative meaning

strictly following the rules or official procedures

Why this phrase?

The 'book' represents written rules or official procedure, which are followed closely.

Example

“The auditor runs everything by the book — no exceptions.”

Dictionary details

Component words

book

Tags

Expressions connected by reviewed component words or topic tags.

hit the books

to study hard, especially before an exam

take a leaf out of someone's book

to follow someone's good example by copying what they do

fall in line

to obey or accept the rules and expectations set by a group or authority

golden rule

the most important rule or principle to follow

out of the question

completely impossible or not permitted

sign on the dotted line

to commit yourself formally by signing an agreement

Source methodology

Meanings, register, CEFR, and examples come from the reviewed dictionary record. Expression notes may describe a reviewed present-day word picture or a background note; they are not presented as verified etymology.

External links

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