by-the-book

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See also: by the book

English

Alternative forms

Pronunciation

  • (file)

Adjective

by-the-book (comparative more by-the-book, superlative most by-the-book)

  1. (idiomatic) Adhering strictly to rules, legal requirements, or official procedures.
    • 2007 December 11, David von Drehle, “Bobby Jindal”, in Time:
      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.

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