By the Book

What it means

Following the rules exactly, without shortcuts or improvisation of any kind.

Where it comes from

The book was originally a specific one, whether a rule book, a service manual or scripture. Going by it meant citing an authority rather than deciding anything for yourself.

The puzzle it came from

By the Book was the answer to the Phrasicle of August 23, 2025. The clue read ____ the ____, and the words came out of a grid where every neighbouring pair makes a two-word phrase.

Play today's Phrasicle Play the August 23, 2025 puzzle