guidepost
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Noun:
- A post bearing a sign that gives directions or shows the way: A physical marker, often a pole or stake, that displays information to help travelers find their way.
- A rule or principle that provides guidance to appropriate behavior: A non-physical standard, idea, or value that helps someone make decisions or understand what is correct.
Usage Examples
- Noun (Physical Sign):
- We followed the guideposts along the forest trail.
- The old guidepost at the crossroads pointed the way to the village.
- Noun (Rule or Principle):
- Honesty and integrity are important guideposts for ethical behavior.
- The company's mission statement serves as a guidepost for all major decisions.
Advanced Usage
- "To use something as a guidepost": To employ a specific idea or piece of information as a reference point for future action or judgment.
- We can use last year's sales figures as a guidepost for this year's projections.
Variants and Related Words
- Guide (noun/verb): A person who leads or shows the way; or the act of directing someone.
- Guideline (noun): A general rule, principle, or piece of advice. (Note: A "guideline" is often more specific or procedural than a "guidepost," which is more foundational.)
- Signpost (noun): Primarily used for the physical post with a sign, very similar to the first meaning of "guidepost."
Synonyms
- Marker: For the physical object.
- Benchmark: For the standard or point of reference.
- Touchstone: For a principle used to test quality or genuineness.
- Beacon: For something that guides or warns.
Related Phrases
- "A guiding principle": A fundamental rule that directs actions and decisions. This is a common phrase that captures the second meaning of "guidepost."
- Fairness is a guiding principle in our judicial system.
Noun
- a post bearing a sign that gives directions or shows the way
- a rule or principle that provides guidance to appropriate behavior