instructing him

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "instructing him" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing the act of giving someone directions or guidance on how to do something. Example: "The teacher was instructing him on how to solve the complex math problem."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Because I am instructing him".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Yet in July , 1997 a letter arrived instructing him to report to the F.B.I.

The New Yorker

Often, they dispatched him to the butcher's, instructing him to buy pounds of veal carpaccio.

The New Yorker

He was passed a note instructing him to "follow up with your primary care provider".

The New York Times - Health

Hubbard sent his will to Brigance, instructing him to defend it "to the bitter end".

The Guardian - Books

"Smells like sushi, doesn't it?" he says to the white farmer instructing him.

The New York Times - Arts

Josh remembers his father instructing him to smash a Red Hot Chili Peppers album to bits.

The New Yorker

Judge Wells avoided clashing with the congressman, mainly instructing him to "move along".

The New York Times

TalkSport: But will it be him instructing you or you instructing him?

The Guardian - Sport

Adams appointed a consul general in 1799, instructing him to emphasize friendship as well as trade.

The New York Times

"Why is there no case?" she continued, staring at Mr. Canellos, instructing him to continue investigating whether Lehman misled investors.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "instructing him", ensure the context clearly indicates the subject of the instruction and the specific action or information being conveyed.

Common error

Avoid ambiguity by specifying what you're instructing him on. Instead of "He was instructing him", say "He was instructing him on how to use the software."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "instructing him" primarily functions as a verb phrase, specifically a present participle verb form used in progressive tenses or as a gerund. This indicates an ongoing action of providing guidance or directions to someone. Examples from Ludwig show it being used to describe various forms of guidance, from coaching to giving orders.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Wiki

21%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Science

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "instructing him" is a grammatically correct and frequently used verb phrase that describes the act of providing guidance or directions to someone. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is suitable for use in various contexts, particularly in news, encyclopedias, and wiki articles. While generally neutral in register, the specific nuance of the instruction can vary, ranging from simple task-oriented directions to more complex educational guidance. When using "instructing him", ensure the context clarifies the subject of the instruction to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives such as "guiding him" or "directing him" may be more appropriate depending on the specific meaning you intend to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

guiding him

Focuses on providing direction or leading someone through a process.

directing him

Emphasizes giving specific instructions or commands.

advising him

Highlights offering counsel or recommendations.

teaching him

Implies imparting knowledge or skills.

coaching him

Suggests providing training or mentorship.

showing him how

Focuses on demonstrating the method or process.

training him

Emphasizes systematic instruction or exercise.

commanding him

Highlights giving an order or authoritative instruction.

ordering him

Conveys a sense of authority and obligation.

briefing him

Focuses on providing essential information or instructions quickly.

FAQs

How can I use "instructing him" in a sentence?

You can use "instructing him" to describe the act of giving someone directions or guidance on how to do something. For example, "The coach was "instructing him" on the proper technique for throwing the ball."

What are some alternatives to "instructing him"?

Alternatives to "instructing him" include "guiding him", "directing him", or "advising him", depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is there a difference between "instructing him" and "teaching him"?

"Instructing him" typically refers to giving specific directions or commands, while "teaching him" implies a broader process of imparting knowledge or skills.

When is it more appropriate to use "commanding him" instead of "instructing him"?

"Commanding him" is more appropriate when emphasizing authority and the expectation of obedience, whereas "instructing him" suggests a more collaborative or educational approach. For example, a general might be "commanding him" to advance, while a teacher would be "instructing him" on algebra.