instructions

USAGE SUMMARY

'instructions' is correct and usable in written English.
The word 'instructions' can be used to refer to detailed information on how to do something, such as directions for putting together furniture, following a recipe, setting up a computer, etc. For example: "Please refer to the enclosed instructions for putting together your new bookshelf."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Lifestyle

Sport

Opinion

Travel

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

However, on 10 February, Carmody phoned the executive director of the courts, Julie Steel, to instruct her to override Boddice's instructions.

The Guardian

I said, 'Look, I'll have a look at it.' " Brown said he may have given instructions for the minute to be changed and conceded he made alterations himself.

The Guardian

The original misattributed words spoken by Laurie Brown to Phillip Costa and mistakenly said Costa said he may have given instructions for the cabinet minute to be changed and admitted making alterations.

The Guardian

"Critically, the stock of property on the market continues to hover close to historic lows with new instructions to agents falling in 10 of the last 12 months.

The Guardian - Money

He gave Breck a mobile phone and also sent instructions by text on the lies Breck should tell his family so he would be able to visit Daynes's home in Grays, Essex.

The Guardian

Full instructions are on the pdf – download it here You will need Scissors Card Glue Elastic/string Instructions Stick your printed page on to your card.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

If patients have already been given a diagnosis, the company guide offers clear and easy instructions on what they should be prescribed.

The Guardian

It suggested that the programme makers were "under instructions from higher up" to make "a happy story about complementary medicine"; that the production could not distinguish evidence from anecdote; even that the series producer was promoting "US-style anti-science".

The Guardian - Opinion

Video messaging is a key tool in Boko Haram's propaganda war and the medium chosen by Shekau to claim responsibility for the abduction of the Chibok girls, announcing that "God instructed me to sell them, they are his properties and I will carry out his instructions".

The Guardian

Many recipes dodge the issue by pointing you towards "packet instructions", but Stein suggests dunking them in boiling water for two minutes, while Luu goes for 5 10 minutes, "until soft".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

It showed he was aware of it and contained detailed instructions for payment.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing technical documentation, ensure that your "instructions" are clear, concise, and easily understood by the intended audience. Use numbered steps and visual aids where appropriate.

Common error

Avoid using vague or ambiguous language in your "instructions". Be specific and provide concrete examples to minimize misinterpretations.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "instructions" is that of a plural noun. It functions as the object of verbs (e.g., "follow instructions") or as a subject complement. As demonstrated by Ludwig, the term commonly refers to a set of directions or guidelines.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Lifestyle

13%

Sport

5%

Less common in

Opinion

4%

Travel

4%

Formal & Business

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "instructions" functions as a plural noun that provides guidance, directions, or commands. As Ludwig AI confirms, the word is grammatically sound and widely used across various contexts, with a notable presence in news, lifestyle, and sports media. When using "instructions", clarity and specificity are key to avoid ambiguity. Consider synonyms such as "directions", "guidelines", or "manual" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Remember to tailor the formality of your language to the intended audience, maintaining precision in technical or legal settings and opting for accessibility in more casual contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

directions

Focuses more on spatial guidance, like a route to follow.

guidelines

Implies a set of recommendations rather than strict orders.

manual

Refers to a comprehensive document providing detailed steps.

commands

Suggests a more authoritative or forceful directive.

prescriptions

Specifically relates to medical or therapeutic guidance.

procedures

Emphasizes a standardized sequence of actions to be followed.

protocols

Highlights established rules or conventions, often in formal settings.

specifications

Focuses on technical requirements or details for a particular task.

teaching

Relates to impart knowledge on how to do something

recommendations

Offers helpful guidance that not necessarily has to be followed

FAQs

How do you use "instructions" in a sentence?

The word "instructions" is a noun and typically refers to a set of directions or guidelines. For instance, "Follow the "directions" carefully to assemble the furniture correctly" or "The software came with detailed "guidelines" for installation".

What are some synonyms for "instructions"?

Alternatives to "instructions" include "directions", "guidelines", "manual", "commands", "prescriptions", "procedures", and "protocols". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to say "instruction" or "instructions"?

Use "instruction" when referring to a single directive or piece of guidance. Use "instructions" when referring to a set or collection of directives. For example, "Read the instruction carefully" versus "Read the instructions carefully".

What is the difference between "instructions" and "advice"?

"Instructions" are typically specific and mandatory, indicating how something should be done, while "advice" is a recommendation or suggestion that can be followed or disregarded.