Sekirov Dictionary

by the book

prepositional phrase 2
by-the-book adjective 1
forms 2

prepositional phrase2

•
In a manner which strictly adheres to rules, legal requirements, or official procedures.
- As far as he is concerned, he umpired by the book. — 2006
•
In a manner which appears too studied, ritualized, and therefore artificial.
- Romeo: Sin from thy lips? O trespass sweetly urged! Give me my sin again. They kiss again. Juliet: You kiss by th' book. — 1591

by-the-book adjective1

•
Strictly adhering to rules, legal requirements, or official procedures.
- Given the troubled Bayou State's long history of rogues and demagogues, the most unusual thing about Gov. Jindal may be his record of by-the-book ethics. — 2007

forms

more by-the-book · most by-the-book

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