it instructed me

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it instructed me" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to guidance or directions received from a source, such as a person, document, or system. Example: "The manual was very clear; it instructed me on how to assemble the furniture step by step."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

It instructed me to place the check in a well-lit area, to make sure the image was within the square frame provided as a guide and to snap the image from above.

The New York Times

It instructed me to "remind everyone that philanthropy is something anyone can do -- and everyone should do".

Huffington Post

It instructed me to drink 32 ounces of apple juice a day because the malic acid in the juice softens gallstones, making them easier to pass.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

The recipe would have been more helpful if it had instructed me, right up top, to leave a greater amount of wobbly fat, when possible, on the cubes.

The New York Times - Books

Baboons squabbled at a muddy seep and the farmer's wife showed me the kitchen and instructed me to lock it at night lest they raid.

The New York Times - Travel

"You can't leave without having it," Seetoh would say, when he instructed me to add another dish to my list.

The New Yorker

Warning vaguely of "trouble," he instructed me to cross it out.

Forbes

She gave me a Parmesan cheese shaker filled with coffee beans and instructed me to inhale periodically; it works as a palate cleanser for the nose.

The New York Times - Style

He very tactfully brought it up with my editor, who then instructed me to refrain from editing Army's copy so heavily in the future.

Huffington Post

I went in, [the proprietor] set everything up, and instructed me on how to smoke it.

Vice

A court official presented a Bible and instructed me to place my hand on it.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it instructed me" when you want to emphasize that a specific set of directions or commands was given and followed.

Common error

While grammatically correct, "it instructed me" can sound somewhat passive or impersonal in formal writing. Consider using a more active voice construction or specifying the source of the instruction for a stronger impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it instructed me" functions as a declarative statement indicating that the speaker received specific directions or commands from a non-human source. Ludwig shows examples of this phrase used to describe guidance received from manuals, recipes, or even internal directives.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it instructed me" is a grammatically sound and usable expression that signifies receiving guidance or commands from a non-human source. As Ludwig AI points out, it's most commonly found in news and media contexts, serving to explain the rationale behind a particular action. While generally neutral in tone, writers should be mindful of the context and consider more active constructions for greater impact. Alternative phrases like "it guided me" or "I was instructed by it" can offer subtle variations in meaning and formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

i was instructed by it

This alternative changes the sentence structure to passive voice, emphasizing the recipient of the instruction rather than the source.

i received instructions from it

This alternative emphasizes the reception of instructions and is more formal.

it gave me instructions

This alternative focuses on the act of giving instructions, highlighting the source's role.

it guided me

This alternative uses a more general term, "guided", which implies a less direct or forceful form of instruction.

it directed me

This alternative, "directed", suggests a clearer, more specific set of instructions than "guided".

it showed me how to

This alternative emphasizes a practical demonstration or explanation of a process.

it advised me

This alternative, "advised", suggests that the source offered a suggestion or recommendation, rather than a command.

it told me

This alternative is more informal and direct, simply stating that the source provided information or directions.

it educated me

This alternative implies a more comprehensive and educational form of instruction.

i learned from it

This alternative shifts the focus to the learning process and the individual's acquisition of knowledge.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "it instructed me" to sound more formal?

Consider using alternatives like "I was instructed by it" or "I received instructions from it". These options offer a more formal and passive tone.

Is "it instructed me" appropriate for academic writing?

While grammatically correct, "it instructed me" might sound too informal for certain academic contexts. Depending on the source, you might consider alternatives like "it guided me" or specifying the source and action more directly.

What's the difference between "it instructed me" and "it advised me"?

"It instructed me" implies a direct command or set of directions, while "it advised me" suggests a recommendation or suggestion that may or may not be followed.

How to use "it instructed me" in a sentence?

You can use "it instructed me" to describe guidance or directions received from a source. For example, "The manual was very clear; it instructed me on how to assemble the furniture step by step."