direct someone to do something

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "direct someone to do something" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when giving instructions or guidance to someone regarding a specific action they should take. Example: "The manager will direct the team to complete the project by the end of the week."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

And before directing someone to do something on a national or international front, it might serve to imagine the child's sassy retort, "Who made you the boss of me?" to help weed out any hint of condescension or patronization in the message.

Huffington Post

When you direct or tell someone to do something, the best you can hope for is compliance.

Forbes

It means asking someone to do something that he will never be able to do.

The New Yorker

Venezuelan football really needed someone to do something similar.

BBC

Episode 19: How do I invite someone to do something?

BBC

How do I invite someone to do something?

BBC

Only then is the meaning reached: a person who makes it easier for someone to do something.

Psicologia: Reflexão e Crítica

Telling someone to do something yields compliance at best.

Forbes

Don't "not allow" someone to do something.

WikiHow

Tell someone to do something if you're popular.

WikiHow

So, if you want someone to do something nice for you, why not do something nice for them first?

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "direct someone to do something", ensure the context clarifies the authority or reason behind the direction. This makes the instruction more understandable and acceptable to the recipient.

Common error

Avoid overly passive constructions when using "direct someone to do something". Instead of "Someone was directed to do something", prefer "The manager directed the employee to do something" for clarity and impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "direct someone to do something" serves as a verb phrase used to indicate the act of giving instructions or guidance to someone, leading them to perform a specific action. It suggests a degree of authority or expertise on the part of the director. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Wiki

33%

Science

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "direct someone to do something" is a versatile and grammatically correct way to convey instruction or guidance. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable in written English. While examples of the exact phrase are scarce, Ludwig's analysis indicates that it is most frequently found in News & Media, Wiki and Science contexts, and carries a professional or neutral tone. Remember to clarify the context and authority behind the direction for maximum effectiveness, and avoid overly passive constructions. Consider the related phrases provided for alternative ways to express similar meanings in different situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

instruct someone to take action

This alternative emphasizes the action to be performed following the instruction.

tell someone what to do

This is a more direct and less formal way of saying the same thing.

guide someone to perform an action

This alternative suggests a more supportive approach to directing someone.

advise someone on how to proceed

This focuses on offering advice rather than a direct order.

assign a task to someone

This alternative refers to formally allocating a specific task.

charge someone with a responsibility

This implies giving someone a specific duty to handle.

order someone to carry out a task

This suggests a more authoritative and formal instruction.

command someone to act

This alternative implies a strong hierarchical relationship and direct order.

enjoin someone to undertake a task

This is a more formal and somewhat archaic way to direct someone.

steer someone towards a particular course of action

This suggests a subtle form of direction, gently influencing someone's choices.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "direct someone to do something" in a formal setting?

In formal contexts, you could use alternatives like "instruct someone to take action", "assign a task to someone", or "charge someone with a responsibility" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What's a less formal way to say "direct someone to do something"?

For less formal situations, consider using phrases like "tell someone what to do" or "guide someone to perform an action", which are more conversational.

When is it appropriate to use "direct someone to do something"?

It's appropriate when you need to clearly convey that someone has been given specific instructions or guidance to perform a particular action. It implies a level of authority or expertise behind the direction.

Is there a difference between "direct someone to do something" and "order someone to do something"?

Yes, while both involve giving instructions, "order someone to do something" implies a more authoritative and possibly forceful command, whereas "direct someone to do something" can be a more neutral or even helpful form of guidance.