directive

An instruction or guideline that indicates how to perform an action or reach a goal.

(programming) A construct in source code that indicates how it should be processed but is not necessarily part of the program to be run.

An authoritative decision from an official body, which may or may not have binding force.

(European Union law) A form of legislative act addressed to the member states. The directive binds the member state to reach certain objectives in their national legislation.

(grammar) The directive case.