different between explanation vs guideline

English

Alternative forms

• explaination (misspelling or obsolete spelling)

Etymology

From Latin explanatio (“an explanation, interpretation”), from explanare (“explain”); see explain.

Morphologically explain +? -ation

Pronunciation

• IPA^(key): /??kspl??ne???n/
• Rhymes: -e???n

Noun

explanation (countable and uncountable, plural explanations)

1. The act or process of explaining.

   The explanation was long and drawn-out.

2. Something that explains, makes understandable.

   An explanation for the UFO sightings was easily found.

3. A resolution of disputed points pursuant to discussion; a mutual clarification of disputed points; reconciliation.

Synonyms

• (act or process of explaining): clarification; elucidation; elaboration; explaining; femsplaining (pej., particularly by a feminist to a man); mansplaining, mansplanation (pej., particularly by a man to a woman)

Related terms

• explain
• explanatory
• explicative
• explicator
• explicatory

Translations

Further reading

• explanation in Webster’s Revised Unabridged Dictionary, G. & C. Merriam, 1913.
• explanation in The Century Dictionary, New York, N.Y.: The Century Co., 1911.

English

Etymology

guide +? line

Noun

guideline (plural guidelines)

1. A non-specific rule or principle that provides direction to action or behaviour.

   He considered the Ten Commandments more a guideline than a requirement.

2. A plan or explanation to guide one in setting standards or determining a course of action.
3. A light line, used in lettering, to help align the text.

Synonyms

• (non-specific rule): rule of thumb
• (plan or explanation): rule of thumb

Descendants

• ? Japanese: ?????? (gaidorain)

Translations

Italian

Etymology

Borrowed from English guideline.

Noun

guideline f (invariable)

1. guideline