explicit instructions

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "explicit instructions" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to clear and detailed directions that leave no room for ambiguity. Example: "The teacher provided explicit instructions on how to complete the assignment to ensure all students understood the requirements."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

So Ms. Micucci gave the caterer explicit instructions to avoid those ingredients.

The New York Times

But it does not give explicit instructions on observing the fast in the far north.

The Guardian

They also must be able to immediately understand what the band wants, often without explicit instructions.

The New York Times

Fire companies stood by synagogues in flames with explicit instructions to let the buildings burn.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Students must copy a prompt, with explicit instructions that they do not print.

The New York Times

He communicates by video or audiotape, often issuing explicit instructions about negotiators he is willing to deal with.

The New York Times

The new software beams far more explicit instructions to workers about where they should go and what they should do.

The New York Times

She had a living will and left me explicit instructions as to what to do when she died.

The New York Times

She told her she should give her housekeeper explicit instructions, not simply let her do whatever she wanted.

The New York Times - Magazine

Medical texts in Babylonia gave explicit instructions as to how to read a sheep's liver to divine the future.

The New York Times - Science

Of course, Cage provided no explicit instructions, but both Pratt and Menzies feel he wouldn't have cared if a recording were made or not.

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "explicit instructions", ensure that the instructions are genuinely clear and leave no room for misinterpretation. Ambiguity can undermine the purpose of being explicit.

Common error

Don't assume that providing "explicit instructions" automatically ensures they will be followed. Factors like understanding, motivation, and situational constraints can still influence compliance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "explicit instructions" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the object of a verb or the subject of a clause. It describes a set of directions that are clearly and unambiguously stated, as demonstrated by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Science

13%

Encyclopedias

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

2%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "explicit instructions" is a grammatically sound and frequently used noun phrase that describes clear and unambiguous directions. According to Ludwig, it is most commonly found in news and media, scientific and encyclopedic contexts. When crafting your writing, remember that providing "explicit instructions" doesn't automatically guarantee compliance; ensure they are understandable and actionable. Consider alternatives like "clear instructions" or "detailed guidelines" depending on your specific needs. Ludwig AI confirms the validity and widespread use of this phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

explicit directions

Replaces "instructions" with "directions", implying a focus on guidance for navigation or a course of action.

particular instructions

Emphasizes the specificity and detail of the instructions given.

specific instructions

Similar to "particular instructions", highlighting the detailed and unambiguous nature of the guidance.

detailed instructions

Focuses on the comprehensive nature of the instructions, implying thoroughness.

clear instructions

Emphasizes the ease of understanding and lack of ambiguity in the provided guidance.

direct instructions

Indicates instructions that are straightforward and without intermediaries.

concrete instructions

Focuses on instructions that are tangible and easily actionable.

explicit directives

Replaces "instructions" with "directives", suggesting a more authoritative or commanding tone.

explicit guidelines

Substitutes "instructions" with "guidelines", implying a set of recommendations rather than strict orders.

unambiguous instructions

Highlights the absence of vagueness or uncertainty in the provided guidance.

FAQs

How to use "explicit instructions" in a sentence?

You can use "explicit instructions" to describe clear and detailed directions given to someone. For example, "The manual provided "explicit instructions" on assembling the furniture."

What can I say instead of "explicit instructions"?

Alternatives include "clear instructions", "detailed guidelines", or "specific directions" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "explicit instructions" or "implicit instructions"?

"Explicit instructions" refer to clearly stated and unambiguous directions, while "implicit instructions" are implied or understood without being directly stated. The correct choice depends on whether the directions are clearly communicated or left to be inferred.

What's the difference between "explicit instructions" and "detailed instructions"?

"Detailed instructions" indicate thoroughness and comprehensiveness, whereas "explicit instructions" emphasize clarity and the absence of ambiguity. While often overlapping, "explicit" focuses more on leaving no room for misinterpretation.