directive

1 of 2

adjective

di·​rec·​tive də-ˈrek-tiv 

dī-

1

: serving or intended to guide, govern, or influence

a directive method

2

: serving to point direction

specifically : directional sense 1b

directive microphones

3

psychology : of or relating to psychotherapy or counseling in which the counselor introduces information, content, or attitudes not previously expressed by the client

directive

2 of 2

noun

: something that serves to direct, guide, and usually impel toward an action or goal

especially, government : an authoritative order or instrument issued by a high-level body or official

a presidential directive

Synonyms of directive

Noun

• instruction
• edict
• order
• direction
• injunction

Examples of directive in a Sentence

Noun

They received a written directive instructing them to develop new security measures.

the company president regularly issues directives intended for all staff members

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

During periods of challenge and pressure, the leader became increasingly directive, critical and demeaning. —Tony Gambill, Forbes.com, 2 June 2026

This rapid advance is due to China’s more directive government but also the public’s willingness to embrace the tech. —IEEE Spectrum, 11 Dec. 2024

Noun

Under Miami’s governance structure, city commissioners are supposed to issue directives through the city manager. —Miami Herald, 9 June 2026

According to Valarie, Anthony was taken off life support per a prior directive and died on Saturday, June 6. —Tommy McArdle, PEOPLE, 9 June 2026

Word History

Etymology

Adjective

see direct entry 1

Noun

see direct entry 1

First Known Use

Adjective

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Noun

1902, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing directive

• advance directive
• airworthiness directive
• self-directive

Rhymes for directive

• advective
• affective
• collective
• connective
• convective
• corrective
• defective
• detective
• effective
• elective
• infective
• injective

Kids Definition

directive

noun

di·​rec·​tive

də-ˈrek-tiv, 

dī-

: something that guides or directs

especially : a general instruction from a high-level body or official

Medical Definition

directive

adjective

di·​rec·​tive də-ˈrek-tiv, dī- 

: of or relating to psychotherapy in which the therapist introduces information, content, or attitudes not previously expressed by the client