as an instruction

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as an instruction" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to something that is meant to guide or direct someone in a specific task or action. Example: "Please follow the guidelines provided as an instruction for completing the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

An older woman comes behind the girl and, as an instruction, forces her hands together against her chest.

Vice

Davis took this as an instruction rather than a criticism.

The Guardian

Some have even used it as an instruction manual.

The New York Times

It can be understood as an instruction in the limitations of and deluded aspirations for power.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The security services and police took Mr Putin's words as an instruction.

The Economist

The author interprets this as an instruction never to leave the reader uninformed about what he ate.

The Guardian - Books

The entire Bourne franchise, indeed, can be seen as an instruction manual in the art of throwaway cool.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

The PRIMASK register can be accessed using special register access instructions as well as using an instruction called the Change Processor State.

The Definitive Guide to the ARM Cortex-M0

It's a novel that works on every level: as an evocation, an instruction, a revelation; as fun.

The Guardian - Books

It focuses on MOV instruction using it as a prototype instruction for understanding the way the x86 instruction set architecture functions and summarizes the instructions in the data transfer class.

Hardware and Computer Organization The Software Perspective

Nothing as complicated as a baby comes without an instruction manual.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "as an instruction", ensure the context clearly indicates who is providing the instruction and to whom it is directed. This avoids ambiguity and clarifies the intent of the communication.

Common error

Avoid assuming that silence or lack of specific direction serves "as an instruction" to do nothing. Proactive inquiry is often necessary to clarify expectations and ensure tasks are completed effectively.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as an instruction" functions primarily as an adverbial phrase. It modifies a verb or clause, indicating the purpose or manner in which something is done. Ludwig's examples show its use to describe how something is intended to be understood or used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

26%

Encyclopedias

7%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "as an instruction" is a grammatically sound and frequently used adverbial phrase that serves to clarify the intended purpose or interpretation of information. Ludwig AI's analysis confirms its correct usage across various contexts, primarily in news, scientific, and encyclopedic sources. While the phrase is versatile, clarity and precision in its application are essential to avoid misinterpretations. Remember to provide context about who is giving the instruction and to whom it is directed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

serving as guidance

Focuses on the directional aspect rather than a strict command.

acting as a guideline

Highlights the suggestive and flexible nature of the information.

functioning as a directive

Emphasizes the authoritative nature of the guidance.

considered a direction

Shifts the focus to how the information is perceived.

interpreted as a mandate

Conveys a stronger sense of obligation and requirement.

taken as a command

Emphasizes the imperative and authoritative nature.

used as a principle

Highlights the fundamental nature of the guidance.

regarded as a prescription

Suggests a specific and necessary action to be taken.

viewed as a regulation

Presents the guidance as a formal and enforced rule.

construed as a signal

Focuses on understanding an action to give the right message.

FAQs

How can I use "as an instruction" in a sentence?

You can use "as an instruction" to indicate that something is meant to guide or direct someone. For example: "The manual serves as an instruction for assembling the product."

What are some alternatives to using "as an instruction"?

Alternatives include phrases like "serving as guidance", "acting as a guideline", or "functioning as a directive" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always necessary to explicitly state "as an instruction"?

No, it is not always necessary. The context often implies that something is meant as a guide. However, using "as an instruction" can provide clarity when there's a risk of misinterpretation.

Can something be unintentionally interpreted as an instruction?

Yes, actions or statements can be misinterpreted as instructions, even if they were not intended as such. This is why clear communication is crucial to avoid confusion.