What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
regulation
Example
The new regulation requires all employees to wear safety helmets on the construction site. [regulation: noun]
Example
The government regulates the use of pesticides in agriculture to protect the environment. [regulates: verb]
guideline
Example
The company provides guidelines for writing effective emails to clients. [guidelines: noun]
Example
These are just guidelines, feel free to adapt them to your own teaching style. [guidelines: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Regulation is a more common term than guideline in formal contexts, especially in legal or governmental settings. Guideline is more commonly used in informal contexts, such as in business or educational settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between regulation and guideline?
Regulation is generally considered a more formal term than guideline. It is often used in legal or governmental contexts, while guideline is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal settings.
