have received instructions

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "have received instructions" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when indicating that someone has been given or has obtained specific guidance or directives. Example: "We have received instructions from the management regarding the new policy changes."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

"We have received instructions from the Holy See that he is under investigation," said Msgr.

The New York Times

Eva Joly, the former anti-corruption investigative magistrate and potential green party presidential candidate, said Lagarde might have received "instructions" directly from the Elysée.

The Guardian

It is hardly surprising then that doctors should have received instructions, confirmed last month by an AFP dispatch, not to talk to reporters.

The Guardian

He was also alleged to have received instructions on how to build a chemical weapon from a fellow member of the IMC.

The Guardian

A senior Belgian counter-terrorism official, who was not named, told CNN that the alleged terror cell was believed to have received instructions from Islamic State.

The Guardian

Another 8,000 men have received instructions on logistics, like moving money, planning sophisticated attacks, blending into Western cities and communicating secretly, officials said.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

Traditionally, developers have received instruction from books and online content from a combination of non-commercial blogs and commercial content providers.

The Guardian - Tech

I have been practicing yoga meditation (including kirtan) for the past 7 years and have received instruction in yoga philosophy from Professor Graham Schweig, an American teacher and practitioner of Yoga spirituality and religion.

Huffington Post

Martindale has now been invited, having received instructions not to speak at the meeting.

The Guardian

That was why the prosecutor had received instructions to ask for thirteen months.

The New Yorker

The Taliban have also arrested 64 Afghan men who they said had received instructions in Christianity from Shelter Now workers.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "have received instructions" when you want to emphasize that someone has been given specific guidance or directives by a higher authority or organization.

Common error

Avoid using incorrect tenses. For instance, using "had received instructions" when the action is ongoing can confuse the reader. Ensure the tense aligns with the timeline of the event.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "have received instructions" functions as a verb phrase indicating that someone has been given specific directives or guidance. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable nature in written English. It's used to convey the act of being informed or commanded.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Academia

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "have received instructions" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase, as affirmed by Ludwig AI. It indicates that someone has been given specific guidance or directives, typically by an authority. The phrase is commonly found in news, media, and scientific contexts. While "have received instructions" may seem formal, its usage is generally neutral. Alternative expressions include "were directed to" and "were given directives". As you saw in the Ludwig examples, it is essential to use the correct tense when employing this phrase to accurately convey the timing of events.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

were directed to

A more concise way of saying that someone was told to do something.

were given directives

Emphasizes the act of giving directives rather than receiving them, slightly shifting the focus.

were ordered to

Suggests a more authoritative or mandatory instruction.

were briefed on

Implies that detailed information or instructions were provided.

were informed of procedures

Specifies that the instructions relate to established procedures.

gained guidance on

Highlights the acquisition of guidance, often implying mentorship or assistance.

were notified of protocol

Highlights the formal communication of a protocol or set of rules.

were schooled in

Conveys being taught or trained in a particular method or skill.

were apprised of the details

Emphasizes the comprehensive nature of the information received.

were enlightened about

Emphasizes the gaining of insight or understanding through instruction.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "have received instructions"?

You can use alternatives like "were directed to", "were given directives", or "were ordered to" depending on the context.

What does "have received instructions" mean?

It means that someone has been given specific orders, commands, or guidance on how to perform a task or behave in a certain situation.

Is it better to say "have received instructions" or "were instructed"?

Both are correct, but "were instructed" is more concise and passive. "Have received instructions" emphasizes the act of receiving.

When is it appropriate to use "have received instructions"?

Use it when you want to highlight that someone was specifically told what to do, especially by a higher authority or someone in a position of power.