directives

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "directives" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to official instructions or orders given by an authority. Example: "The manager issued several directives to ensure the project stayed on track."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Westminster has less than ever to fear from the directives of a European superstate, which only really exists in gin-soaked Tory nightmares.

The Guardian - Opinion

And then the NSA is empowered to issue "directives" to telephone and internet companies to obtain the communications for whomever the NSA decides – with no external (i.e. outside the executive branch) oversight – complies with the guidelines it submitted to the court.

The Guardian - Opinion

[The] CIA conducts those intelligence activities in compliance with the United States constitution, federal statutes and presidential directives".

The Guardian

And the report warned: "So long as governance in so many countries fails to meet the expectations of the people, there will be a steady flow of hopeful recruits to the ranks of the Islamic State; and many others who lack the means or opportunity to travel may be tempted to follow its directives within their own countries".

The Guardian - Opinion

In some ways – for instance, the speed with which EU directives are put into law – the British are better Europeans than the Germans.

The Guardian

As with all directives, each EU member state is legally obliged to create its own national regulations to enforce the terms of the directive.

The Guardian - Opinion

Similarly, "eat better" directives ignore how food and beverage companies' activities strongly shape the choices individuals make: unhealthy consumption is influenced heavily by the fact that these products are often cheap, available, convenient, and made desirable by savvy marketing.

The Guardian

Not in the law of the UK, not in directives, not in the judgments of the court".

The Guardian - Tech

There are green spaces, protected largely by EU directives – although the report card is less glowing when it comes to agriculture and fisheries.

The Guardian

"All 702 collection is pursuant to court directives, so they have to know," De reiterated to the Guardian.

The Guardian

Downtrodden by decades of directives and starved of funds except for what the officials deem useful, squeezing such teaching in without any of the support given so far to modern languages, is not in fact a real choice.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "directives", ensure the context clearly indicates the source and authority behind the instructions.

Common error

Avoid using "directives" when the intention is to offer advice or suggestions. "Directives" imply mandatory instructions, while suggestions are optional.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "directives" is as a plural noun. It refers to a set of instructions or orders issued by an authority. Ludwig confirms this as correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Formal & Business

25%

Science

25%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "directives" functions as a plural noun, denoting official instructions or orders from an authority. As Ludwig confirms, this term is grammatically correct and widely used across various contexts. Predominantly found in news and formal business settings, it conveys a sense of mandatory guidance. To avoid confusion, it's crucial to distinguish "directives" from mere suggestions. Alternatives like "orders", "instructions", and "guidelines" can be used depending on the desired level of formality and specificity. Ludwig's examples showcase the versatility and importance of understanding the proper use of "directives" in both writing and speech.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

orders

Focuses on the authoritative and commanding aspect of instructions.

instructions

Emphasizes the detailed and specific nature of the guidance.

commands

Highlights the authoritative nature and expectation of obedience.

regulations

Refers to formal rules and guidelines established by an authority.

mandates

Implies a formal and often legal requirement.

policies

Refers to established plans or courses of action.

guidelines

Suggests recommendations or best practices rather than strict rules.

rules

Focuses on established principles or norms of behavior.

prescriptions

Emphasizes specific recommendations or requirements, often in a formal context.

stipulations

Highlights specific conditions or requirements that must be met.

FAQs

How can I use "directives" in a sentence?

You can use "directives" to refer to official instructions or orders, such as: "The company issued new "directives" regarding employee safety."

What are some alternatives to using "directives"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "orders", "instructions", or "guidelines".

Is there a difference between "directives" and "policies"?

"Directives" are specific instructions or orders for immediate action, while "policies" are broader guidelines that set the overall direction.

When is it appropriate to use "directives" in formal writing?

Use "directives" in formal writing when referring to official instructions issued by an authority, such as government "directives" or company "directives".