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."
"Students can ask the school nurse for guidance if they feel worried."
2
The act of leading, directing, or steering something.
"The plane flew under the guidance of air traffic control."
"The guide's steady guidance helped the group cross the river safely."
"Under the captain's guidance, the small boat found its way into the harbour."
3
A system that automatically steers a vehicle, missile, or aircraft along a set path.
"The missile's guidance system locked onto its target."
"The drone's guidance system keeps it flying along the planned route."
"A fault in the guidance unit sent the robot off course."
How to use guidance
Learner’s notesIn 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
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Word forms
- Plural
- guidances
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The counsellor offered _____ on choosing a career path.
Etymology
From "guide" plus the noun-forming suffix "-ance."
Synonyms
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Rhymes for guidance
See all rhymes for guidance →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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