I instructed them

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I instructed them" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to convey that you gave directions or guidance to a group of people. Example: "After reviewing the project requirements, I instructed them on how to proceed with the next steps."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

"I instructed them that if people are having sex in a car and it's dark, don't get involved.

The New York Times

I instructed them to go to the rear of the bus, and close the sliding door to keep some of the bus in a tenable condition.

The New York Times

I instructed them to stay calm, to let me make sure there wasn't a third plane attack en route and that we were facing 20-hour day and there would be adequate time to help others, once I knew that the third plane report was unfounded".

The New York Times

"Say anything," I instructed them, "and I'll make it sound good in Italian".

Huffington Post

There were approximately 80 people in the room and I instructed them all to imagine an ideal mentoring arrangement.

Huffington Post

"When I first joined the school, I instructed them to install plastic bottles with holes so that children could wash their hands in running water," she explained.

Unicef

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

They mustn't prepare any dialogue; when they have to act together, I instruct them all separately, so none of them knows what I have told the other".

The Guardian - Film

"If I've measured the child's footprint and seen that the child is smaller than usual, then I instruct them to carry the child skin-to-skin so that the child can share and feel the mother's warmth," says Ulaya. "I also carry a small doll with me called Opendo.

BBC

Sometimes I instruct them; sometimes they instruct me; sometimes we just muddle through and no one is instructed.

Huffington Post

Do not, I instruct them, ask any questions about people's intimate lives.

Huffington Post

"Go out of your way," I instruct them, "to make someone feel good about themselves".

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "I instructed them", ensure that the context clearly defines who "I" refers to and who "them" refers to, avoiding ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "I instructed them" without clearly establishing who "I" and "them" are in the preceding context. This can lead to confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I instructed them" functions as a declarative statement where the speaker (I) is communicating that they gave instructions or commands to a group of individuals (them). Ludwig confirms its correct and usable nature.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "I instructed them" is a grammatically correct and commonly used way to express that the speaker provided guidance, directions, or commands to a group of people. Ludwig confirms that is correct and usable in written English. It's frequently found in news and media outlets, as well as formal business and scientific contexts. When using the phrase, ensure clarity regarding who "I" and "them" refer to. Alternatives include "I directed them", "I commanded them", and "I guided them", each offering a slightly different nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I directed them

Similar meaning with a focus on guidance.

I commanded them

Implies a more authoritative tone.

I ordered them

Similar to 'commanded' but can imply less formality.

I guided them

Focuses on showing the way or providing advice.

I advised them

Suggests offering recommendations.

I told them

A more general way of conveying information or instructions.

I showed them

Suggests a demonstration or visual aid.

I taught them

Highlights the aspect of imparting knowledge or skills.

I trained them

Emphasizes systematic instruction and practice.

I briefed them

Focuses on providing essential information or updates.

FAQs

What does "I instructed them" mean?

The phrase "I instructed them" means that the speaker provided directions, commands, or guidance to a group of people.

What can I say instead of "I instructed them"?

You can use alternatives like "I directed them", "I commanded them", or "I guided them" depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "I instructed them"?

Yes, "I instructed them" is grammatically correct and commonly used in both spoken and written English.

How formal is the phrase "I instructed them"?

The phrase "I instructed them" is generally considered neutral in formality and can be used in a variety of contexts, from news reports to business communications.