instrument

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "instrument" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a tool or device used for a specific purpose, often in contexts like music, science, or measurement. Example: "The scientist used a specialized instrument to measure the temperature of the reaction."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Music

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Who wants to beat themselves up?" "A certificate is a more powerful instrument than one would think," anther official commented.

The Guardian

He took us to a musical instrument shop, past the great tourist sites and guided us to safe harbour back at the hotel bar.

The Guardian - Music

Unless England end up doing uncharacteristically well – or unless someone happens to invent a horrible-sounding musical instrument with a funny name – then I have to admit that a World Cup can often pass me by.

The Guardian - Opinion

As an instrument of the internationalism it was set up to pursue, it is hopeless.

The Guardian - Business

Despite caretakers appearing to be much more effective in building community trust than the installation of CCTV, gating and door entry systems, they are not acknowledged by SBD, which is a blunt instrument, incapable of adapting to complex unintended consequences.

The Guardian

There was also much wit in Bartlett's use of a parodic iambic pentameter and in the tissue of references to Shakespeare's plays: to Richard II in the image of deposition, to both parts of Henry IV in the portrait of a rogue Prince Harry rejoicing in, and ultimately rejecting, low life and even to Hamlet in the idea of Diana's ghost as an instrument of prophecy.

The Guardian

British politicians, many of them Tory, participated in the drafting of the ECHR in Whitehall because they believed that they were drafting an instrument to reflect the values that we in this country took for granted and which, they thought, vindicated our military triumph.

The Guardian - Opinion

It is thought Mohamed used a sharp instrument to cut off his tag and was last seen at the An-Noor Masjid and Community Centre in west London.

The Guardian

So it is fitting that the country that produced the 19th-century composer should also produce perhaps the most startling upgrade to the instrument that made his name: the piano.

The Guardian - Music

So of course you would know more if you walked from here to God knows where and experienced as many cultures as you could while playing a musical instrument.

The Guardian - Music

Food sovereignty through sustainable farming should be promoted as an instrument of food security for the benefit of all.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "instrument" to refer to a legal document, ensure the context clearly indicates the legal or contractual nature of the item being discussed.

Common error

Avoid using "instrument" when a more specific term like "tool", "device", or "contract" would provide greater clarity. "Instrument" is effective when encompassing multiple types, but precision enhances understanding.

Linguistic Context

The word "instrument" primarily functions as a noun, referring to a tool, device, or legal document. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in numerous contexts. Examples show its versatility across musical, scientific, and legal domains.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Formal & Business

25%

Music

20%

Less common in

Science

15%

Opinion

5%

Lifestyle

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "instrument" is a versatile word primarily used as a noun to refer to tools, devices, or legal documents. Its usage is grammatically sound and very common, according to Ludwig AI. While generally neutral to formal in tone, context dictates the precise register. To enhance clarity, consider using more specific terms when appropriate. By understanding these nuances, you can effectively use "instrument" in your writing and speech. The provided alternatives, like "tool" or "device", offer flexibility in expressing similar ideas. The sources found by Ludwig, show its usage in domains such as news, formal documents, music, and science, confirming its widespread applicability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

tool

This alternative refers to a device used to perform a task, similar to one meaning of "instrument".

device

This term denotes a piece of equipment designed for a specific purpose, overlapping with the functional aspect of "instrument".

mechanism

This suggests a system or process that achieves a particular result, aligning with the idea of an "instrument" as a means.

apparatus

This emphasizes the technical or complex nature of a device, which can sometimes be associated with "instrument".

implement

This term underscores the practical application of a tool or device, a key feature of "instrument".

legal document

This refers to the meaning of "instrument" as a formal written agreement.

measuring device

This is an alternative for when "instrument" refers to something that measures.

musical instrument

This is an alternative for when "instrument" refers to something that creates music.

means

This emphasizes the role of "instrument" as a way to achieve a specific outcome.

agency

This alternative focuses on the capacity of "instrument" to act or produce an effect.

FAQs

How can I use "instrument" in a sentence?

You can use "instrument" in a sentence to refer to a tool, a device, or a legal document. For example, "The surgeon used a sterile instrument during the operation", or "The contract is an important legal instrument".

What are some synonyms for "instrument"?

Synonyms for "instrument" include "tool", "device", "mechanism", and "legal document", depending on the context.

Is it correct to use "instrument" to describe a person?

Yes, "instrument" can describe a person used as a tool to achieve a goal, although this usage might carry a negative connotation. For example, "He was merely an instrument in their plan".

What's the difference between "instrument" and "tool"?

"Tool" typically refers to a handheld device used to perform a specific task, while "instrument" can encompass a broader range of devices, including measuring devices and legal documents. For example, a hammer is a tool, while a thermometer is an instrument.