1. in a manner that lays down rules, standards, or requirements; in a way that dictates what should be done
Usage: commonly used in linguistics, grammar, and education to describe rule-based or normative approaches

Examples

• The grammar teacher spoke prescriptively about the correct use of semicolons.
• Linguists distinguish between descriptive and prescriptive approaches; the former observes language as it is used, while the latter prescriptively dictates how it should be used.
• The style guide prescriptively requires all headings to be in title case.
• Rather than prescriptively imposing rules, modern educators often encourage students to understand the reasoning behind language conventions.
• The manual prescriptively states that all equipment must be calibrated before use.