awaiting instructions

USAGE SUMMARY

"awaiting instructions" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is often used to indicate that someone or something is ready and waiting to receive directions or instructions. For example: The troops were stationed at the edge of the enemy encampment, awaiting instructions.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

29 human-written examples

Everyone is sitting tight and awaiting instructions from the top".

The New York Times

The covers lay across the pitch, with ground staff lolling around, awaiting instructions.

The Guardian - Sport

The digger's driver had fallen asleep in his cab while awaiting instructions.

The New Yorker

The police in Dagestan, a Russian republic, are awaiting instructions from Moscow on the matter.

The New York Times

They are now back in their home countries, or elsewhere, awaiting instructions.

The New York Times

The Chilean police are awaiting instructions from their counterparts in Peru, Mr. Espinosa said.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

31 human-written examples

There is no inhibition, and no awaiting instruction.

The Guardian - Music

Black-coated porters linger in the spacious hallways, awaiting instruction.

Independent

With the dutifulness of a long-term prisoner, he stands awaiting instruction.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The ninjas — actresses attired head to toe in black— wandered around awaiting instruction.

The New York Times

The characters -- mostly attractive female students -- are flat caricatures of North American ignorance and innocence, awaiting instruction, sexual and otherwise.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "awaiting instructions", ensure the context clearly indicates who or what is providing the instructions. For example, "The team is awaiting instructions from the project manager."

Common error

Avoid using "awaiting instructions" without specifying the source of the instructions, as it can lead to confusion. Be specific about who or what the subject is waiting for.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "awaiting instructions" functions primarily as a participial phrase acting as an adjective, modifying a noun or pronoun by describing its state of readiness. Ludwig shows examples like "police officials saying they were awaiting instructions from the government".

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "awaiting instructions" is a common and grammatically correct participial phrase used to describe a state of readiness contingent on external guidance. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is widely accepted in written English. It is frequently encountered in news and media contexts, and it carries a neutral tone suitable for various levels of formality. When using this phrase, ensure clarity by specifying the source of the expected instructions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

standing by for directions

Emphasizes immediate readiness, implying a prepared state to act upon receiving instructions.

ready to receive orders

Directly states the readiness to accept and execute commands.

waiting for guidance

Replaces "instructions" with a broader term, suggesting a need for overall direction rather than specific commands.

at the ready for commands

Emphasizes preparedness and availability to receive and act upon commands.

on standby for orders

Uses military terminology, implying a formal or hierarchical context where commands are expected.

remaining on call for directives

Implies availability and responsiveness when directives are issued.

in anticipation of directives

Formal and emphasizes expectation and adherence to official orders or policies.

expecting commands

Highlights the expectation of direct orders.

poised for direction

Suggests a refined readiness, emphasizing balance and control while awaiting instructions.

holding pattern

Suggests a temporary state of suspension while waiting, commonly used in aviation.

FAQs

How can I use "awaiting instructions" in a sentence?

You can use "awaiting instructions" to indicate that someone or something is in a state of readiness, waiting for directions before acting. For example, "The soldiers were "standing by", awaiting instructions from their commander."

What is a more formal alternative to "awaiting instructions"?

A more formal alternative could be "in anticipation of directives", which implies a higher level of formality and expectation of official guidance.

Is it better to say "awaiting instructions" or "waiting for instructions"?

"Awaiting instructions" and "waiting for instructions" are largely interchangeable. "Awaiting instructions" may sound slightly more formal, but both are grammatically correct and widely understood. Use the one that best fits the tone and context of your writing.

What does "awaiting instructions" imply about the subject?

"Awaiting instructions" implies that the subject is prepared and ready to act, but lacks the necessary direction to proceed independently. It suggests a state of dependence on external guidance.