contrary to instructions

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "contrary to instructions" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when indicating that an action or decision goes against the given guidelines or directives. Example: "The report was submitted contrary to instructions, which led to confusion among the team."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

Thus, 5 out of 14 (36%) of instructed participants reported some hierarchical beliefs contrary to instructions.

Behaviour Research and Therapy

Contrary to instructions, he had, he admitted, cut speed to 18 knots, not zig-zagged and come near shore.

The Economist

He did so without the knowledge of the Town Board and contrary to instructions from the town attorney that the transfers were illegal, Mr. Spota said.

The New York Times

In their statement, Bryant's agent and lawyers charged that the sheriff's office had acted unfairly by obtaining an arrest warrant contrary to instructions from Hurlbert's office.

The New York Times - Sports

Contrary to instructions, he had been working over the locks at home with a hatpin and a spoke from a bicycle wheel, with occasional success.

The New Yorker

Its officers were allowed to own land and, contrary to instructions, they also began trading in a number of goods, including liquor.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

They accuse the Dutch of negligence saying "they had a humanitarian assignment, but acted contrary to their instructions".

Independent

Mr. Klindworth's suit says that by putting his assets into the risky securities, his broker had acted contrary to his instructions.

The New York Times

SAUCKEL: It did happen that, contrary to my instructions, labor transports were stopped, or transferred to other regions or to other factories.

Yale University

I was never told or heard that the Vatican had any objection to it or that it was contrary to any instructions coming from Rome.

The New York Times

All these features explain why the government has a limited ability to control the legislative agenda and why parliamentarians are often able to vote contrary to party instructions and to avoid electoral accountability.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To emphasize the degree of deviation, consider adding adverbs such as 'directly', 'explicitly', or 'clearly' before "contrary to instructions".

Common error

Avoid assuming the reader understands the underlying details of the instructions; always provide sufficient context to prevent misinterpretations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "contrary to instructions" functions as a prepositional phrase, often used adverbially to modify a verb or clause. It indicates that an action or situation is in opposition to or deviates from specific guidelines or directives. As seen in Ludwig's examples, it provides context about the manner in which something was done.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

22%

Academia

9%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

9%

Wiki

6%

Formal & Business

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "contrary to instructions" is a versatile prepositional phrase used to indicate deviations from established guidelines or directives. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across various contexts, including news, science, and academic writing. While it is often interchangeable with phrases like "against instructions" or "in violation of directives", the choice depends on the desired nuance and level of formality. Remember to provide adequate context when using this phrase to avoid ambiguity and ensure clear communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

contrary to explicit directions

Underscores that the actions went against clear, unambiguous instructions.

in violation of directives

Highlights that the action breaks or infringes upon established regulations or orders.

in defiance of orders

Emphasizes a deliberate and often rebellious disregard for specific commands.

disregarding the stated protocol

Emphasizes the act of ignoring or neglecting an established set of procedures.

against the guidelines

A more general phrase that indicates a deviation from suggested or recommended practices.

deviating from the prescribed method

Focuses on the departure from a particular, outlined technique or way of doing something.

not in accordance with the rules

Stresses that the action doesn't align with established regulations or standards.

at odds with the specified procedures

Highlights a conflict or disagreement with established methods or protocols.

in opposition to the guidance

Implies a resistance or disagreement with advice or recommendations given.

in spite of the given advice

Highlights that the action happened despite receiving specific counsel.

FAQs

How can I use "contrary to instructions" in a sentence?

You can use "contrary to instructions" to describe actions that deviate from specific guidelines. For example, "The package was delivered to the wrong address, "contrary to instructions" given to the courier".

What are some alternatives to saying "contrary to instructions"?

Alternatives include phrases like "in violation of directives", "against the guidelines", or "not in accordance with the rules", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is there a difference between "contrary to instructions" and "against instructions"?

"Contrary to instructions" is generally more formal and emphasizes a direct contradiction. "Against instructions" is slightly less formal but carries a similar meaning. Both are acceptable, but "contrary to instructions" may be preferred in professional contexts.

When should I use "contrary to instructions" instead of "disobeying instructions"?

Use "contrary to instructions" when focusing on the deviation from the guidelines themselves, rather than the act of disobedience. "Disobeying instructions" emphasizes the deliberate act of defying an order, while "contrary to instructions" highlights the inconsistency with the specified guidelines.