adhering to instructions

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "adhering to instructions" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing compliance or following specific guidelines or directions. Example: "The team is committed to adhering to instructions provided by the project manager to ensure successful completion of the task."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Out of 12 symptoms assessed, the following were suitable to describe ADHD in preschool children (ADHD-Rating Scale-IV) [ 33]: problems with prolonged maintenance of attention, a high distractibility, being on the go often, excessive running/climbing, not adhering to instructions, having trouble to sit still.

BMC Psychiatry

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

However, they failed to adhere to instructions of utmost importance related to the protocol.

BMC Infectious Diseases

Adhering to the instructions from Richmond, Quintero had arrived in Vidaurri's capital, Monterrey, with modest aims.

The New York Times

I painted a heart with an arrow going through it to symbolise not only my love for my dinner guest, but also my dedication to making these recipes as appetising as I physically could, while also vaguely adhering to the instructions.

Vice

I painted a heart with an arrow going through it to symbolize not only my love for my dinner guest, but also my dedication to making these recipes as appetizing as I physically could, while also vaguely adhering to the instructions.

Vice

The results from the first round, prior to the consensus meeting, obtained when 25 neuropathologists assessed and staged the IHC stained sections of the 30 test cases adhering to the instructions are listed in Table 3.

Brain Pathology

It is illegal to use most pesticides without adhering to the instructions.

WikiHow

After all, she's adhering to the instruction plastered on bumper stickers everywhere to "Keep Austin Weird".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Adults with lower education levels may have had a lack of understanding of the importance of adhering to bowel preparation instructions and it is clear that our healthcare system has to find a mechanism to compensate for this problem.

BMC Gastroenterology

Destruction of the data will adhere to instructions provided in the Australian Government Information Security Manual [ 42].

BMC Health Services Research

29 45 Patients with low health literacy are less likely to recall and adhere to instructions for complex drug or self care regimens.

British Medical Journal

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "adhering to instructions", ensure that the context clearly indicates what specific instructions are being followed. Providing clarity on the source and nature of the instructions strengthens the message.

Common error

Avoid using "adhering to instructions" in vague contexts. Always clarify whose instructions are being followed and the nature of those instructions to prevent ambiguity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "adhering to instructions" functions as a gerund phrase acting as a noun, often describing the act of compliance. Ludwig AI validates this usage, confirming that the phrase is correct and commonly used to convey the action of following specific directives.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

45%

News & Media

30%

Formal & Business

25%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "adhering to instructions" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase that conveys the act of following specific directives or guidelines. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is widely applicable across various contexts, especially in scientific, news, and formal business settings. While alternatives like "following directions" or "complying with guidelines" exist, this phrase offers a slightly more formal and precise tone. Remember to maintain clarity by specifying which instructions are being followed to avoid ambiguity. Whether in professional, academic, or general communication, the key is to ensure your usage is clear, specific, and contextually appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

following directions

Focuses specifically on the act of following a set of directions.

complying with guidelines

Emphasizes compliance with established guidelines.

obeying orders

Highlights the aspect of obedience to commands.

heeding advice

Implies paying attention to and acting upon advice given.

abiding by rules

Stresses adherence to a set of rules or regulations.

observing regulations

Highlights the act of watching and following regulations.

conforming to specifications

Focuses on meeting specific technical requirements.

sticking to the plan

Emphasizes remaining committed to an existing plan.

respecting the protocol

Highlights the importance of showing consideration to established protocol.

keeping with procedure

Emphasizes following established and formalized procedure.

FAQs

What does "adhering to instructions" mean?

The phrase "adhering to instructions" means following directions or guidelines. It implies compliance and careful attention to specific directives.

What can I say instead of "adhering to instructions"?

You can use alternatives like "following directions", "complying with guidelines", or "obeying orders" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "adhering to instructions" or "following instructions"?

Both "adhering to instructions" and "following instructions" are correct. "Adhering to instructions" might sound slightly more formal, while "following instructions" is more common in everyday language.

What is the difference between "adhering to instructions" and "complying with instructions"?

"Adhering to instructions" emphasizes careful and exact following, whereas "complying with instructions" focuses on meeting the requirements or rules set by the instructions.