formal instruction

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "formal instruction" is correct and can be used in written English.
It refers to the structured and organized teaching process that takes place in a formal setting, such as a classroom or a training program. Example: "He excelled in mathematics, thanks to the formal instruction he received from his dedicated teacher."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

He took no formal instruction.

The New York Times - Magazine

I never bothered with formal instruction.

The New York Times - Sports

He had little success with formal instruction.

The New Yorker

There, Flores received formal instruction for the first time.

The New York Times - Sports

That was his only formal instruction, he said, besides records.

The New York Times - Arts

But formal instruction can help novices (and veterans) get better quicker.

The New York Times - Arts

But conversation is not widely included in formal instruction, and oral skills lag far behind.

The New York Times

Many more black children are getting at least some kind of formal instruction than under apartheid.

The Economist

During the months without formal instruction, his father would supervise his practice sessions.

The New York Times - Arts

Children born to high status were given formal instruction throughout childhood and adolescence.

Encyclopedia Britannica

But few of them have had formal instruction on how to set the sights on their rifles correctly.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing educational background or skill acquisition, specify the type of "formal instruction" received to provide clarity and context. For example, mention "formal instruction" in mathematics, music, or a specific trade.

Common error

Avoid using "formal instruction" as a catch-all term for education. Instead, be specific about the type of instruction, the setting, and the qualifications of the instructors to provide a more accurate picture of the learning experience.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "formal instruction" is as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object or subject in a sentence. As Ludwig AI indicates, it refers to structured and organized teaching within a formal setting.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "formal instruction" is a common and grammatically sound term used to describe structured learning within organized settings. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it effectively conveys the concept of systematic teaching. It finds frequent application across news, scientific, and encyclopedic contexts. While various synonyms like "structured education" and "systematic training" exist, specifying the type of "formal instruction" can significantly enhance clarity in writing. Avoiding overgeneralization and providing specific details about the learning experience are crucial best practices when using this term.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

structured education

Focuses on the structured and organized aspect of education, similar to formal instruction.

academic training

Highlights the academic nature of the instruction.

systematic training

Emphasizes the organized and methodical nature of the training process.

classroom learning

Highlights the setting where instruction takes place.

official teaching

Emphasizes the official or sanctioned nature of the teaching.

conventional schooling

Implies adherence to traditional educational methods.

regulated learning

Implies a learning process that is controlled and governed by rules.

prescribed curriculum

Stresses the established and mandatory aspect of the educational content.

didactic education

Highlights the instructional and teaching aspects of education with an authoritative and instructional approach.

tutelage

Focuses on individual or small-group instruction.

FAQs

How is "formal instruction" different from informal learning?

"Formal instruction" involves structured learning in an organized setting like a school, whereas informal learning occurs through everyday experiences and self-directed study. "Formal instruction" often includes a set curriculum and qualified teachers, which may not be present in informal learning environments.

What are some synonyms for "formal instruction"?

Alternatives to "formal instruction" include "structured education", "systematic training", and "classroom learning". The best choice depends on the specific context and the aspect of instruction you want to emphasize.

In what contexts is "formal instruction" most relevant?

"Formal instruction" is particularly relevant when discussing educational systems, skill development, and professional training. It is often used in academic papers, educational reports, and descriptions of learning programs.

Does "formal instruction" guarantee better learning outcomes?

While "formal instruction" provides a structured learning environment, it does not guarantee better outcomes. Factors such as student motivation, teacher quality, and the relevance of the curriculum also play significant roles in determining the effectiveness of learning.