Words / A2

HANDB-uk/ˈhændbʊk/

A handbook is a small book of facts or rules: a student handbook, the staff handbook, according to the handbook. Textbook teaches a subject; a handbook is for using a place or system. Guidebook is for travel. Manual can be for a machine. Do not mix with handy book as two casual words.

Meaning

A small book of useful facts, rules, or instructions.

Examples

• “Read the student handbook before term starts.”
• “The handbook explains how to fill in the form.”
• “Further rules are in the school handbook.”

Good to know

a student/staff handbook. Travel: guidebook. Subject teaching: textbook. Machines: manual.

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