an instruction from

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an instruction from" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a directive or guideline that has been given by someone or something. Example: "I received an instruction from my supervisor to complete the report by Friday."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

47 human-written examples

If you get an instruction from the prime minister it's like getting an instruction from your CO in the army.

The Guardian

Several minutes may pass in a game before Chaney shouts an instruction from the sideline.

The New York Times - Sports

He believed he was acting on an instruction from the Bank of England to lower Libor.

The Guardian - Business

The operator misheard an instruction from his controller about which station to go to.

The Washington Post

It fetches an instruction from memory, using the PC as the address.

University of California, Berkeley

He thought if their respective forces heard such an instruction from their leaders, they would stand down....

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

13 human-written examples

"Because this was not an instruction coming from my grandfather, I didn't follow those instructions.

The Guardian

On the front page is a handwritten instruction from a more senior officer.

The Guardian - Sport

Reportedly, the blocking was an explicit instruction from the SFMTA.

TechCrunch

The first could be the beginning of a heartbreaking tale of small-town American disappointment; the second a script instruction from Coronation Street.

The Guardian - Books

GLASPIE: I have a direct instruction from the President to seek better relations with Iraq.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "an instruction from", ensure the source of the instruction is clearly identified to provide context and credibility.

Common error

Avoid ambiguity by specifying who or what the instruction originates from. Saying "an instruction was given" is less effective than stating "an instruction from the manager was given."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an instruction from" functions as a prepositional phrase modifying a noun, typically indicating the origin or source of a specific directive or order. It highlights who or what is providing the instruction, adding clarity and authority to the statement. As seen in Ludwig, the phrase is used to specify where an action or decision originated.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an instruction from" is a prepositional phrase used to indicate the source of a directive or order. It's grammatically correct, commonly used, and appears frequently in various contexts like news, academia, and science. As Ludwig AI shows, it's crucial to specify the source for clarity. The phrase is versatile and can be replaced by alternatives like "a directive from" or "an order from" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey. To avoid ambiguity, always ensure the source of the instruction is clearly identified.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a directive from

Emphasizes a formal order or command, often from a higher authority.

a command from

Suggests a forceful and authoritative order, typically in military or hierarchical contexts.

an order from

Indicates a specific request or instruction, often within a structured environment.

guidance from

Implies a more supportive and advisory direction, rather than a strict requirement.

advice from

Suggests a recommendation or suggestion, often based on personal experience or expertise.

a recommendation from

Indicates a formal suggestion, often provided by an expert or authority.

a mandate from

Highlights a clear and explicit authorization to act, often from an electorate or governing body.

a ruling from

Implies a formal decision or judgment, often from a court or tribunal.

a decree from

Suggests an official order or proclamation, typically issued by a ruler or government.

a signal from

Suggests a subtle cue or indication, prompting action or understanding.

FAQs

How to use "an instruction from" in a sentence?

Use "an instruction from" to indicate the source of a directive or guidance. For example, "The project was completed following "an instruction from" the supervisor".

What can I say instead of "an instruction from"?

You can use alternatives like "a directive from", "a command from", or "an order from" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "an instruction from" or "instructions from"?

"An instruction from" refers to a single directive, while "instructions from" refers to multiple directives. Choose the phrase that accurately reflects the number of instructions received.

What's the difference between "an instruction from" and "advice from"?

"An instruction from" implies a mandatory directive that must be followed, while "advice from" suggests a recommendation that is optional to implement.