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

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

Rather than apply uniform strategies, managers must be fluid with their styles and needs — sometimes directive, sometimes collaborative, focused on tasks or on relationships as needed. —Iese Business School, Forbes.com, 10 July 2025

Unlike conventional leadership styles focused on directive decision-making, leaders who coach empower employees to think creatively, take initiative and pursue ambitious goals. —Nathalie Blais, Forbes.com, 25 June 2025

Noun

These directives are in the spotlight after Paramount and Skydance committed to foregoing DEI programs several months back under a notoriously anti-diversity initiatives Donald Trump administration, and the decision was reiterated last week to the Federal Communications Commission. —Max Goldbart, Deadline, 31 July 2025

While the agency's directive does not mention immigration enforcement as a reason for data collection, critics of the order have raised concerns that it could be used to facilitate deportations. —Aliss Higham, MSNBC Newsweek, 31 July 2025

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