Vorschrift

Vorschrift is a German noun meaning a rule, regulation, instruction, or directive established by an authority. It can refer to a formal legal provision as well as to any written instruction that dictates conduct or requirements in a particular context.

The word derives from vor- meaning “before” and Schrift meaning “writing,” conveying the sense of a written instruction issued in advance.

In law and administration, Vorschriften bind individuals and organizations. They appear as Gesetz, Verordnung, or administrative directions; within industries, specific Vorschriften cover safety, craftsmanship, and compliance. Common types include Bauvorschriften (building codes), Sicherheitsvorschriften (safety rules), and Verkehrsvorschriften (traffic rules).

Vorschrift is broader than Anweisung and is not limited to high-level acts at the level of Gesetz or Verordnung. The term is often used for practical or technical directives issued by authorities, companies, or institutions.

Related terms include Regel (rule), Norm (standard), Gesetz (statute), Verordnung (ordinance), Richtlinie (guideline), and Anweisung (instruction).