standard operating procedure

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Word: Standard Operating Procedure (SOP)

Definition: A standard operating procedure (SOP) is a set of written instructions that describe how to perform a task or activity. It is used to ensure that things are done consistently and correctly every time. SOPs are used in many different fields, such as business, healthcare, and manufacturing.

Usage Instructions:

• SOPs are usually written and can be found in manuals or documents.
• They are followed by employees or team members to maintain quality and efficiency in their work.
• When you follow an SOP, you are following a specific method that has been proven to work well.

Example:

• "In our restaurant, we have a standard operating procedure for preparing food. This way, every dish tastes the same, no matter who makes it."

Advanced Usage:

• In larger organizations, SOPs can be quite detailed and cover many different aspects of a job. They can also be updated regularly to improve processes or comply with new laws and regulations.

Word Variants:

• Standardize (verb): To make things the same or similar.
• Procedure (noun): A method or way of doing something.

Different Meanings:

• In general, "procedure" can refer to any method of doing something, even outside of a standard context. For example, a "medical procedure" refers to a specific medical operation or treatment.

Synonyms:

• Protocol
• Guideline
• Method
• Routine
• Process

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• While there aren’t specific idioms or phrasal verbs for "standard operating procedure," you might hear phrases like "stick to the script," which means to follow the established procedures without deviation.

Conclusion:

Understanding standard operating procedures is important in many jobs, as they help ensure that everyone knows what to do and that tasks are completed correctly.

Academic

Noun

1. a prescribed procedure to be followed routinely
   • rote memorization has been the educator's standard operating procedure for centuries

Synonyms

• standing operating procedure
• SOP
• standard procedure