by-the-book en · ADJ
Pronunciation
- (Australia) audio
Meanings
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(idiomatic) 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 December 11, David von Drehle, “Bobby Jindal”, in Time:
Forms
| Spelling | Features | Labels | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| by-the-books | alternative | lexicographic | |
| most by-the-book | Degree=Sup | lexicographic | |
| more by-the-book | Degree=Cmp | lexicographic |