Meaning
To follow rules or instructions very strictly, without deviation.
Cultural Background
In Spain, it is often used in professional contexts to emphasize that a deadline or protocol is non-negotiable. Mexicans use it frequently in both work and personal life, often to emphasize discipline in a culture that sometimes values flexibility. Argentines use it to describe strict adherence to rules, even when the rules might seem overly bureaucratic. In Colombia, it is a common way to express that a task must be done exactly as requested, leaving no room for error.
Don't translate literally
Don't think about boards or cutting. Just think 'strictly'.
Don't use in creative tasks
It sounds too rigid for art or brainstorming.
Meaning
To follow rules or instructions very strictly, without deviation.
Don't translate literally
Don't think about boards or cutting. Just think 'strictly'.
Don't use in creative tasks
It sounds too rigid for art or brainstorming.
Pair with 'seguir'
It sounds most natural when paired with the verb 'seguir'.
Test Yourself
Complete the sentence with the correct phrase.
Para tener éxito, debes seguir el plan __________.
The correct idiom is 'a rajatabla'.
Choose the sentence that uses the idiom correctly.
Which sentence is correct?
Only 'a rajatabla' is the correct idiomatic form.
Complete the dialogue.
A: ¿Debo cambiar algo en el informe? B: No, sigue las instrucciones __________.
It emphasizes strict adherence to instructions.
🎉 Score: /3
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
3 exercisesPara tener éxito, debes seguir el plan __________.
The correct idiom is 'a rajatabla'.
Which sentence is correct?
Only 'a rajatabla' is the correct idiomatic form.
A: ¿Debo cambiar algo en el informe? B: No, sigue las instrucciones __________.
It emphasizes strict adherence to instructions.
🎉 Score: /3
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsNo, only for rules, plans, or instructions.
Yes, it is generally formal.
You don't. It is an adverbial phrase.
Yes, it is very common in professional settings.
No, that is incorrect.
Yes, it is widely understood.
'Al pie de la letra'.
It can sound strict, but not necessarily aggressive.
No, it doesn't fit subjective experiences.
No, it is a simple phrase to memorize.
Related Phrases
Al pie de la letra
synonymTo the letter
Sin falta
similarWithout fail
A cal y canto
contrastLocked tight
A rajatabla
specialized formStrictly
