guidebook

USAGE SUMMARY

The word 'guidebook' is correct and commonly used in written English.
It refers to a book that provides information and guidance on a particular topic or location. You can use the word 'guidebook' when talking about a travel guide that provides information about a specific city or country. For example, "I bought a guidebook for my trip to Italy to help me plan my itinerary and learn about the local culture."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Something like: "I've heard [insert overhyped guidebook favourite] serves the best food in town – is it true?" Show them your guidebook – few people ever look at one for their own city and it often creates interest, as well as tips to store up for later.

The Guardian - Travel

I blame the guidebook.

The Guardian - Travel

Ripping a few pertinent pages out of an edited, fact-checked guidebook and packing them into my carry-on bag still serves me well.

The Economist

As the visitor's guidebook admits, the present restoration can do little more than hint at the former opulence of the Courtaulds' way of life.

The Economist

On the surface, it takes the form of a jaunty guidebook, full of jokes, obscure facts and the kind of helpful impressionism that more formal travel guides lack (the "psychic smell" of Edinburgh, we are told, is "Gothic").

The Economist

He lived in a grand hotel and walked the streets, guidebook in hand.

The Economist

Written in Hebrew with an Arabic translation alongside it, the guidebook, according to its editors, is an acknowledgment of the Nakba (catastrophe) that befell Palestinians after 1948 when they were driven out of, or fled from, their homes.

The Economist

My guidebook recommends Ueno, with its crusty old arcades, as the perfect counterpoint to ultra-modern Shinjuku.

The Economist

In an era of pop-up restaurants and 140-character updates, guidebook publishing has suffered hugely.

The Economist

But I'm slowly replacing those ripped-up guidebooks with digital versions stored on my iPad".The value provided by a well-researched guidebook is precisely why their buyers are willing to pay the extra few dollars for curated content.

The Economist

There are frequent exhortations to give more money, a slick guidebook costing £5 and a gift-shop selling all manner of Minster-related knick-knacks.Charging people to enter a church may seem tight-fisted, but England's 61 cathedrals are perennially short of money and in need of repair.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "guidebook" for comprehensive, in-depth informational books; for quick reference, a "handbook" may be more suitable.

Common error

Avoid using "guidebook" to describe something that is more of a pamphlet or brochure; reserve "guidebook" for more substantial, detailed publications.

Linguistic Context

The word "guidebook" functions primarily as a noun, referring to a book that provides information or instructions, often about a particular place or subject. As Ludwig AI explains, it's commonly used in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Encyclopedias

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

8%

Reference

7%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "guidebook" is a common noun referring to a book that offers information or instructions, often for travel or specific subjects. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and general usage. It appears most frequently in news and media contexts and encyclopedias. When considering alternatives, "travel guide" and "handbook" are suitable substitutes depending on the context. Avoid using "guidebook" for pamphlets or brief overviews, reserving it for comprehensive publications. Overall, the word is widely accepted and understood across various registers.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

travel guide

Focuses specifically on guides for travelers, omitting broader applications of "guidebook".

handbook

Indicates a compact guide, often for practical information.

resource guide

Emphasizes the guide as a source of resources on a particular topic.

instruction manual

Implies a focus on providing instructions, not necessarily about places.

companion

Implies a guide that is meant to be used alongside something else, such as a journey or a course of study.

field guide

Suggests a guide specifically for identifying items in their natural environment, like plants or animals.

reference book

Suggests a more general reference source, less specific than a "guidebook".

user manual

Specifically refers to a guide for using a product or service.

directory

Emphasizes a listing of items, places, or people.

sourcebook

Implies a collection of primary source materials or information.

FAQs

How do I properly cite a "guidebook" in academic writing?

Cite a "guidebook" as you would any other book, including the author, title, publisher, publication date, and page numbers if referencing specific information. Use the citation style required by your institution (e.g. MLA, APA, Chicago).

What are some alternatives to the word "guidebook"?

Depending on the context, you could use "travel guide", "handbook", or "instruction manual".

Is it appropriate to use "guidebook" for digital resources?

Yes, "guidebook" can refer to both physical books and digital resources that provide comprehensive information and guidance on a particular subject or location. The term focuses on the function rather than the format.

What makes a "guidebook" different from a regular book?

A "guidebook" is specifically designed to provide practical information and guidance to its readers, often including tips, recommendations, and detailed instructions relevant to a specific topic or location. Regular books may be more focused on storytelling, analysis, or entertainment.