Meaning
To follow rules or instructions very strictly.
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.
Use it to sound professional
Using this phrase in an interview shows you respect rules.
Meaning
To follow rules or instructions very strictly.
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.
The idiom is 'by the book'.
🎉 Score: /1
Practice Bank
1 exercisesWe need to do this _____ the book.
The idiom is 'by the book'.
🎉 Score: /1
Frequently Asked Questions
1 questionsNo, it must be 'by the book'.
Related Phrases
Cut corners
contrastTo do something poorly or quickly.