by the letter

/baɪ ðə ˈlɛtər/

strictly following rules or instructions

The manager insisted that all procedures be followed by the letter.

The manager required strict adherence to all rules without deviation.

formal

To follow instructions or rules exactly as written, without any deviation or interpretation.

The contract must be executed by the letter to avoid legal disputes.

The contract must be followed precisely to prevent legal issues.

She interpreted the law by the letter, refusing to consider any exceptions.

She strictly adhered to the law without making any exceptions.

Often used in legal, bureaucratic, or formal contexts where precision is critical.

Collocations

follow by the letterto adhere strictly to rules or instructions

exactly as written or stated

This phrase is often used in professional or legal contexts to emphasize strict adherence to rules.

The phrase originates from the idea of following written instructions or rules exactly as they are written, down to the smallest detail (the letter).

Commonly used in legal, bureaucratic, or formal contexts where strict adherence to rules is required.

in accordance with

preposition

the letter

the exact written word or rule

noun phrase

English Dictionary