just instruct

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "just instruct" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to simplify a request for someone to provide instructions or guidance without any additional context or elaboration. Example: "If you're unsure about the process, just instruct me on what to do next."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

They're not sure what to do, and usually the nurse will just instruct the parent to hold the kid's hand.

The New York Times

In future many clients may just instruct their brokers to divide up the business even more and sort out the resulting complexity.

The Economist

Did the director explain to him that this is funny, or just instruct him to do the lines deadpan, while Keanu frowningly nodded over his script?

The Guardian

If he liked intelligent blood and guts, he didn't need to wait until TNT's Clint Eastwood week -- he could just instruct his black box to fetch Clint Eastwood movies as they played.

The New York Times - Magazine

Many pretend to tackle some pressing issue, like the opioid crisis, but actually just instruct his advisors to go figure out something he can do about it later.

Vice

In lieu of a proper intro, I'm going to give you a week off from my ill-conceived, uneducated ramblings and just instruct you to gather the family and watch the following video.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

Our captain was just instructed to shift to Pensacola yesterday [Thursday, June 10].

The New Yorker

The regimental commander had just instructed him over the radio to block, and not advance, the captain replied.

The New Yorker

Of course, Trump is just instructing his followers to blame the judiciary in general for yet another loss, so the details hardly matter.

The Washington Post

I know this fact because Sean Combs, the hip-hop hyphenate variously known as Puff Daddy, Puffy, P Diddy, and more recently, plain old Diddy, has just instructed his wardrobe man, Dave, to lend me an item of knitwear to cope with the sub-zero temperatures in the Mojave Desert, where he's making the video of the track "Yesterday", from his new album Last Train to Paris.

Independent

In my memory, Meryl Streep and Lily Tomlin are on the set, sitting in front of a long mirror, and Lindsay Lohan is reclining on a couch, and Altman is sitting in his high canvas chair in the shadows, having just instructed Bobby the cameraman on the timing of the dolly shot, and he says: "Let's do one".

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "just instruct", ensure the context is clear. The phrase implies a straightforward request for instructions, so avoid ambiguity by specifying who is instructing whom and about what.

Common error

While "just instruct" is acceptable, avoid overusing it in formal or professional writing. Alternatives like "kindly direct", "please advise", or "provide guidance" often sound more polished and professional.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "just instruct" primarily functions as a verb phrase, where "just" modifies the verb "instruct". It is used to express a straightforward request or direction. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

30%

Science

30%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "just instruct" is a grammatically sound phrase used to request straightforward instructions. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. While it appears most commonly in news and media contexts, its neutral-to-informal register suggests caution in highly formal settings where alternatives like "please advise" might be more suitable. The phrase conveys a directness that emphasizes the simplicity of the desired guidance. Overall, while not exceptionally frequent, "just instruct" serves as a clear and concise way to seek direction.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

merely guide

Similar to 'just guide', but emphasizes the act of guiding more distinctly.

simply direct

Focuses on the act of guiding or pointing someone in a certain direction with minimal effort.

merely tell

Highlights the straightforward communication of information without additional actions.

just guide

Emphasizes providing support and direction in a simple and uncomplicated manner.

only direct

Similar to 'simply direct', but emphasizing the limitation to just directing.

simply order

Conveys a more authoritative tone, implying a command to be followed.

only advise

Suggests offering a recommendation or suggestion without imposing a requirement.

just command

Implies a strong sense of authority and expectation of obedience.

simply teach

Focuses on the educational aspect of providing instructions or guidance.

just show

Implies providing a demonstration rather than verbal instructions.

FAQs

How can I use "just instruct" in a sentence?

You can use "just instruct" when you want to simply ask someone to give instructions or guidance. For example: "If you're unsure about the process, "just instruct" me on what to do next".

What phrases are similar to "just instruct"?

Similar phrases include "simply direct", "merely tell", or "just guide" depending on the desired level of formality and context.

Is it better to say "just instruct" or "simply instruct"?

Both "just instruct" and "simply instruct" are grammatically correct and convey a similar meaning. The choice between them depends on personal preference and the specific context of your writing. "Simply instruct" may sound slightly more formal.

When is it appropriate to use "just instruct" versus "please advise"?

"Just instruct" is suitable for informal requests for guidance, while "please advise" is more appropriate for formal settings. Consider your audience and the level of formality required when making your choice.