I've been instructed

USAGE SUMMARY

"I've been instructed" is a perfectly valid and correct sentence in written English.
You can use it when you want to state that somebody has given you instructions about something. For example: "I've been instructed to wear closed-toed shoes for the safety training."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

I've been instructed to write a letter to the company's credit dispute department, explaining all.

The New York Times

I've been instructed how to disperse plutonium into the ventilation system of an office building.

The New York Times - Magazine

"The F.B.I. were here last week, and I've been instructed not to discuss it," Mr. Evans said.

The New York Times

"I was doing what I've been instructed to do through the Bible, but now I've been stymied.

The Guardian

Maybe it's because I've been instructed to pack a respirator escape hood along with party dresses for the Boston convention.

The New York Times

He now has monthly trims, and I've been instructed to lighten it with the modern, posher version of Sun-In to bring him back to blond.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

To the Editor: I have been instructed to sprinkle a teaspoon of salt over my food to avoid muscle cramps.

The New York Times

His daughter Joanne told me, "I had been instructed not to say what my father did for a living.

The Guardian - Opinion

Former Australian federal court judge, Ron Merkel QC and I have been instructed by Barbara Shaw to prepare a complaint to CERD.

The Guardian - Opinion

Crittendon approached their Plexiglas booth, turned to face Morales, and said, "I have been instructed to inform you that the warden is standing down from the execution".

The New Yorker

Unusually, I had been instructed by a court to conduct a risk assessment on a parent who was asking for her children to be returned to her.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "I've been instructed", ensure the context clearly indicates who provided the instructions to maintain clarity and avoid ambiguity. For example: "I've been instructed by my manager to complete this task immediately."

Common error

Avoid using "I've been instructed" repeatedly in writing without varying sentence structure or providing context. Overuse can make your writing sound monotonous or passive. Instead, try varying it with alternatives like "I was directed", or providing a specific source for the instruction.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I've been instructed" functions as a passive voice construction, indicating that the subject (I) is the recipient of an action (instruction). Ludwig confirms its correctness.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Science

26%

Formal & Business

26%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "I've been instructed" is a common and grammatically correct way to indicate that someone has received directions or orders. As Ludwig AI indicates, its primary function is to convey that the speaker is acting under specific guidance. While versatile, "I've been instructed" is often found in neutral to professional contexts, such as news reporting and business communication. For variety, consider using alternatives like "I was directed" or "I was told to", but ensure the substitute maintains the intended level of formality and obligation. Remember to clearly indicate who provided the instruction to avoid ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I have received instructions

Uses a more formal tone by using "I have received" instead of "I've been".

I was directed

Emphasizes the direction or guidance received, rather than formal instruction.

I was told to

A simpler, more direct way of expressing that someone gave a command or suggestion.

I am under orders

Highlights that the speaker is acting due to an order, often implying a formal command structure.

I'm under command

Similar to "I am under orders", but puts more emphasis on the command structure itself.

I've been ordered

Stronger emphasis on the mandatory nature of the instruction. It implies a more formal and direct command.

My orders are to

Focuses on the orders themselves rather than the speaker's action.

I'm required to

Highlights the obligatory aspect of the action. It suggests a rule or policy is being followed.

It's my duty to

Emphasizes a sense of obligation or responsibility to perform the action.

I'm compelled to

Implies a strong, often unavoidable, need or force driving the action.

FAQs

How can I use "I've been instructed" in a sentence?

Use "I've been instructed" to indicate that you received directions or commands from someone. For example, "I've been instructed to submit the report by Friday."

What can I say instead of "I've been instructed"?

You can use alternatives like "I was directed", "I was told to", or "I am under orders depending on the context.

Is it better to say "I've been instructed" or "I was instructed"?

"I've been instructed" and "I was instructed" are both grammatically correct and convey a similar meaning. The choice depends on your preferred style and the desired level of formality. "I've been instructed" is a contraction and slightly less formal.

What's the difference between "I've been instructed" and "I've been advised"?

"I've been instructed" implies a command or direction, while "I've been advised" suggests a recommendation or suggestion. Instruction carries more weight and obligation than advice.