by the book

== English == === Alternative forms === by-the-book (attributive) === Pronunciation === === Prepositional phrase === by the book (idiomatic) In a manner which strictly adheres to rules, legal requirements, or official procedures. (idiomatic, by extension) In a manner which appears too studied, ritualized, and therefore artificial. ==== Translations ==== === See also === by the numbers according to Hoyle legalism literalism proceduralism to the letter shipshape and Bristol fashion === Further reading === “by the book”, in OneLook Dictionary Search.