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noun B1 Intermediate Common

guidance

GEYE-duhns

Guidance (noun) means help or advice given to someone, often about direction in life or a specific decision. Example: “The counsellor offered guidance on choosing a career path.”

noun
1
Help or advice given to someone, often about direction in life or a specific decision.
"The counsellor offered guidance on choosing a career path."
"She sought her mentor's guidance before accepting the job offer."
2
The act of leading, directing, or steering something.
"The plane flew under the guidance of air traffic control."
3
A system that automatically steers a vehicle, missile, or aircraft along a set path.
"The missile's guidance system locked onto its target."

How to Use Guidance

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishHelp, advice, or direction that steers someone (or something) the right way.

Common pairings
career guidance under the guidance of guidance system seek guidance

Word Forms

guidances plural

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Fill the Gap

Can you complete this real example?

The counsellor offered _____ on choosing a career path.

Etymology

From "guide" plus the noun-forming suffix "-ance."

Related Words

Rhymes for guidance

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does “guidance” mean?

The word “guidance” means help or advice given to someone, often about direction in life or a specific decision. In plain terms, help, advice, or direction that steers someone (or something) the right way.

How do you pronounce “guidance”?

“Guidance” is pronounced GEYE-duhns (/ˈɡaɪdəns/ in IPA).

How do you use “guidance” in a sentence?

Here is “guidance” used in a sentence: “The counsellor offered guidance on choosing a career path.”

What part of speech is “guidance”?

“Guidance” is a noun.

Is “guidance” a common word?

“Guidance” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.

How many meanings does “guidance” have?

“Guidance” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: help or advice given to someone, often about direction in life or a specific decision.

What is the difference between 'guidance' and 'advice'?

Advice is a specific suggestion about what to do, while guidance is broader, ongoing help or direction, often given over time. A friend gives advice on one decision; a mentor provides guidance across many.

What is the difference between 'guidance' and 'direction'?

Both involve leading someone, but 'guidance' suggests supportive help that leaves room for a person's own choices, while 'direction' can mean firmer instructions on exactly what to do. Guidance advises; direction often commands.

Is 'guidance' countable or uncountable?

'Guidance' is an uncountable noun, so you say 'some guidance' or 'a piece of guidance,' not 'a guidance' or 'guidances.' It refers to help or advice as a general concept.

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Definitions: FreeDict original editorial