A1 Idiom Neutral

By the book.

Following rules exactly.

Meaning

To follow rules or instructions very strictly.

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Cultural Background

Americans value 'by the book' as a sign of fairness and lack of corruption. In the UK, it is often used in sports or public service to ensure fairness.

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Use it to sound professional

Using this phrase in an interview shows you respect rules.

Meaning

To follow rules or instructions very strictly.

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Use it to sound professional

Using this phrase in an interview shows you respect rules.

Test Yourself

Fill in the blank with the correct preposition.

We need to do this _____ the book.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: by

The idiom is 'by the book'.

🎉 Score: /1

Practice Bank

1 exercises
Fill in the blank with the correct preposition. Fill Blank A1

We need to do this _____ the book.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: by

The idiom is 'by the book'.

🎉 Score: /1

Frequently Asked Questions

1 questions

No, it must be 'by the book'.

Related Phrases

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Cut corners

contrast

To do something poorly or quickly.

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