Go by the book

Meaning

The idiom "go by the book" means to follow the rules or regulations strictly, without any deviation or flexibility. It also suggests that someone is not only following the written text but is also interpreting it correctly and applying it in practice.

Usage

• The new employee was instructed to go by the book when it came to company policies.
• The chef followed the recipe to a T, going by the book every step of the way.
• When dealing with legal matters, it's always best to go by the book to avoid any potential issues.
• The student studied hard and went by the book for their final exam.
• The manager was known for being strict and going by the book when it came to disciplinary action.

Roots and History

The idiom "go by the book" is believed to have originated from the legal profession, where lawyers and judges are expected to follow the written law exactly as it's written in the books or statutes. Over time, the phrase has been applied to other areas of life, such as work, school, and everyday activities.

Synonyms in English

• Stick to the rules
• Follow the guidelines
• Adhere strictly to the regulations
• Conform to the principles
• Observe the protocols

Synonyms in other languages

• En suivre les règles - French
• Adherir à la loi - French
• Respetar las leyes - Spanish
• Siguiendo el código - Spanish
• Stick to the regulations - German

Similar Idioms

• go to the dogs

• get off

• get to know