prescriptively

pre·scrip·tive

 (prĭ-skrĭp′tĭv)

adj.

1.

a. Relating to or making rules, laws, or directions: prescriptive pronouncements.

b. Linguistics Based on or establishing norms or rules indicating how a language should or should not be used rather than describing the ways in which a language is used.

2. Law Of or relating to acquisition or occupancy by prescription.

3. Archaic Sanctioned or authorized by long-standing custom or usage.

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pre·scrip′tive·ly adv.

pre·scrip′tive·ness n.

American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright © 2016 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.