express instructions

USAGE SUMMARY

"express instructions" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to talk about specific instructions given explicitly or explicitly communicated. For example: "The manager gave us express instructions to have the report ready by Monday."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

Chief decision scientist for Google Cloud Cassie Kozyrkov explains that traditional software programming relies on a developer's ability to express instructions for a task explicitly.

Forbes

The comparisons were made on the express instructions of Campbell.

The Guardian

What reports went back to Whitehall from British intelligence agents, there to interrogate on the express instructions of government ministers?

The Guardian - Opinion

But he admitted Smith, who worked with Hunt for nearly six years, had not been given "any express instructions" as to what his exact role should be.

The Guardian

The company — which serves as a middleman between borrowers and lenders — repurchased the loans because they had failed to "conform to the investor's express instructions".

The New Yorker

Westminster Abbey said the body was taken there at the "express instructions" of her son and it takes its responsibility very seriously.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

But putting such clearly expressed instructions to one side, I am not sure that I understand the article's apparent assumption that burying bodies in a common grave is per se less respectful or "dignified" than cremation and scattering of the ashes.

The New York Times

President Trump followed, but at least his advisers had given express instruction: "DO NOT CONGRATULATE".

The Guardian - Opinion

This material is debuted tonight by a host of musicians under express instruction from Beck that the songs are to be "pulled apart and reshaped".

The Guardian - Music

The latter rules can follow from an express instruction at constitutional level (bottom-up) or, in absence of such instruction, follow from regulation in keeping with operational level settings (top-down) as indicated above as ideal type scenario.

Energy, Sustainability and Society

BuzzFeed's report, citing two sources familiar with the special counsel's investigation, goes further, claiming that Cohen told those lies at the express instruction of Trump.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "express instructions" when you want to emphasize that the instructions were explicitly given and should be followed precisely. For example, "The package was delivered with express instructions to keep it refrigerated."

Common error

Avoid using "express instructions" for routine or simple directions. It's best reserved for situations where the clarity and directness of the instructions are particularly important. For example, instead of saying "He gave express instructions to turn left at the corner", use "He told me to turn left at the corner."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "express instructions" functions as a noun phrase, where "express" modifies "instructions" to indicate that they are explicitly and clearly stated. Ludwig shows that this phrase is commonly used to emphasize the clarity and directness of guidance.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Science

22%

Wiki

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "express instructions" is a grammatically sound phrase used to emphasize the clarity and directness of guidance. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is suitable for a variety of contexts, ranging from news reports to professional communications. While "express instructions" is relatively common, it's most appropriate when highlighting the importance and precision of the instructions given. Remember to use alternative phrases, like "explicit directions" or "clear instructions", to avoid overuse and ensure the most fitting expression for your specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

explicit directions

Emphasizes the clarity and lack of ambiguity in the guidance.

clear instructions

Highlights the ease of understanding the guidance.

specific instructions

Focuses on the detailed and precise nature of the guidance.

precise directions

Stresses the accuracy and exactness of the guidance.

unambiguous instructions

Highlights the absence of any possible misinterpretation of the guidance.

detailed instructions

Emphasizes the thoroughness and comprehensiveness of the guidance.

direct commands

Focuses on the authoritative and straightforward nature of the guidance.

explicit guidance

Replaces "instructions" with "guidance", offering a slightly broader term.

unequivocal directives

Uses more formal terms to emphasize the clear and undeniable nature of the guidance.

stated instructions

Focuses on the fact that the guidance was formally articulated.

FAQs

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

You can use "express instructions" to indicate that someone has given very clear and specific orders or directions. For example, "The general gave the troops express instructions not to engage without his command."

What's a good alternative to "express instructions"?

Alternatives to "express instructions" include "explicit directions", "clear instructions", or "specific instructions", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "express instructions" or "explicit instructions"?

"Express instructions" and "explicit instructions" are quite similar. "Express" emphasizes the act of communicating the instructions, while "explicit" emphasizes the clarity and detail of the instructions themselves. The choice depends on the specific context.

When should I use "express instructions" instead of just "instructions"?

Use "express instructions" when you want to highlight that the instructions were particularly clear, direct, and emphasized. It adds a level of importance and precision that the simple word "instructions" might not convey. For example, "She left instructions on how to care for the plants" vs. "She left express instructions on how to administer the medication".