The correct spelling of the compound word "program guide" is made up of two words that are both spelled phonetically. Program is pronounced as /ˈprəʊɡræm/ and guide is pronounced as /ɡaɪd/. The word program refers to a planned series of activities, while guide refers to a person or thing that shows the way. When combined, the two words form a noun that refers to a list of activities or events within a program, often used in the context of television or radio schedules.
A program guide is a comprehensive resource that provides users with essential information about the television or radio programs that are scheduled to air within a specific time frame. It serves as a detailed catalog or schedule for various channels and broadcasts. The primary purpose of a program guide is to assist viewers in finding and selecting the desired content among the plethora of available programming options.
Typically organized in a convenient and user-friendly format, program guides facilitate efficient navigation through the extensive array of channels and programming choices. They offer succinct descriptions of shows, films, documentaries, or other broadcasts, along with designated time slots and durations. Program guides can be provided in various mediums, including paper formats like newspapers and magazines, electronic formats like interactive TV guides, or online platforms.
In addition to providing scheduling details, program guides often offer supplementary information like episode summaries, cast lists, ratings, and content warnings. This allows viewers to gain insights into the nature and quality of the programming, helping them make informed decisions about what to watch. Such guides may also feature personalized features or recommendations based on a viewer's previous preferences or viewing habits.
Overall, program guides are indispensable tools for television and radio enthusiasts. With their rich and up-to-date information, they alleviate the challenge of finding and selecting suitable content from the vast array of programming options available across different channels and mediums.
The word "program guide" is a compound noun that combines the words "program" and "guide".
The word "program" originated from the Greek word "programma", meaning "public notice". In ancient Greece, it referred to a written proclamation or decree that was displayed publicly. Over time, the word expanded in meaning to refer to a planned series of events or an announcement of scheduled activities.
The word "guide" has its roots in the Old English word "gīdan", which means "to lead or direct". It derived from the Proto-Germanic word "*gaidjaną". In English, "guide" has traditionally been used to describe a person or thing that leads or directs another.