go by the book
Meaning: Operate according to the rules.
Language: English
Literally: (Already vivid in English)
Category: Daily Life
Origin: The expression probably originates from the idea that the procedure or accepted rules of an established game are set down in a book.
More idioms — Daily Life
- do something by the seat of one's pants — To accomplish something by luck and instinct rather than skill.
- call someone on the carpet — To confront or hold someone responsible for some misdeed.
- call someone's bluff — To challenge someone to carry out a threat or prove the truth of a statement.
- call a spade a spade — To speak plainly or call something by its right name, even if it is unpleasant.
- call the shots — To be in control or to give orders.
- open a can of worms — A situation that contains many unexpected and unwanted problems and consequences.
More English idioms
- carry a torch for someone — To be in love with someone, usually someone who does not love in return.
- carry the ball — To take on work or responsibility in order to keep a project moving forward.
- cast pearls before swine — To offer something to someone who cannot appreciate it.
- catch someone red-handed — To catch someone in the act of committing some offense.
- catch someone's fancy — To appeal to someone.
- change horses in midstream — To change plans or leaders in the middle of some action or event.
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