go by the book

G

go by the book (idiom / verb phrase)
/ɡoʊ baɪ ðə bʊk/

Variants

• by the book
• play it by the book
• do it by the book

Meaning

• Follow rules, procedures, or laws exactly without deviation.
• Act strictly according to official guidelines or protocol.
• Operate by established traditions or formal instructions.
• Avoid taking risks or using personal judgment in uncertain situations.

Synonyms: obey; comply; conform; adhere; follow; submit.

Example Sentences

1. The officer goes by the book, even in emergencies.
2. To avoid trouble, the accountant went by the book during the audit.
3. The judge prefers to go by the book and not show favoritism.
4. As a new teacher, she tried to go by the book for classroom management.

Origin and History

Theories of Origin

Several ideas explore where “go by the book” came from:

The Military and Bureaucratic Manuals

One prominent theory suggests the phrase originated in military settings or large, structured organizations. In such environments, detailed manuals and rulebooks govern every conceivable action and situation. To “go by the book” in this context means to strictly follow these official protocols, even when personal judgment might suggest a different approach. This literal interpretation highlights the importance of written procedures in maintaining order and consistency within complex systems.

The Influence of the Bible

Another widely considered theory proposes that “the book” refers specifically to the Bible. In historical contexts, swearing oaths or making solemn declarations often involved placing a hand on the Bible to signify truthfulness and unwavering commitment. Therefore, to “go by the book” could have initially meant to act in accordance with moral principles or to uphold a promise with the utmost integrity, as if bound by sacred texts. This theory suggests a deeper, more spiritual foundation for the idiom.

General Written Instructions

A third theory posits a more generalized origin, suggesting that “the book” simply represents any set of written instructions or standard operating procedures. Throughout history, various crafts, trades, and professions have relied on written guides, textbooks, or manuals to ensure tasks are performed correctly and consistently. To “go by the book” in this sense would mean to consult and strictly adhere to these practical, documented instructions, much like a chef follows a recipe or an artisan works from a blueprint.

Earliest Appearances

The phrase has a notable presence in English literature and publications, indicating its long-standing use.

One of the earliest printed references to a similar sentiment appears in The Times in January 1833, where a phrase like “By the book, it’s myself is the moral o’ patience!” was used. Another early instance of “by the book” in print can be found in Edgar Allan Poe’s Murders in the Rue Morgue, published in 1845, which includes the line: “To have a retentive memory, and to proceed by ‘the book,’ are points commonly regarded as the sum total of good playing.”

Intriguingly, an even earlier, albeit debated, appearance is attributed to William Shakespeare in his play Romeo and Juliet (1597), where Juliet tells Romeo, “You kiss by the book.” While the exact interpretation of “the book” here is open to discussion, some scholars believe it refers to the Bible, implying a methodical or perhaps uninspired way of kissing, adhering to a perceived “rulebook” of romance or behavior. This suggests the concept of “doing things according to a prescribed method” has roots stretching back centuries in the English language.

Country of Origin

Based on the earliest documented uses in English literature, including the works of Shakespeare and other prominent English-language publications, the phrase “go by the book” is widely considered to have originated in an English-speaking country, most likely England. Its integration into common parlance and written works points to a development within the English language and culture.

Book, Law

Last update: July 11, 2025 2:45 AM