leave instructions

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "leave instructions" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when asking someone to provide guidance or directions for a task or process. Example: "Please leave instructions for the new employee on how to operate the equipment."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

25 human-written examples

People leave instructions in their wills.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

(Let's leave instructions two and three up to the imagination).

The New York Times

As we prepared to leave, instructions came to stay put.

The Guardian

The deceased would also leave instructions on who should receive which parts of the file.

The New York Times

You can also plan your funeral and leave instructions for family and friends," says Parry-Jones.

The Guardian - Money

"I feed them in the morning, harrow the gallop and leave instructions.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

33 human-written examples

Because Aleister Crowley never left instructions".

The New York Times

They had left instructions, she said, not to discuss the window.

The New York Times

Whitlam had left instructions for the Sydney Symphony and Philharmonia Choir to perform Bach and Verdi.

The Guardian

He left instructions that it not be published until he died.

The New Yorker

The last Em left instructions for the next one: You have to kill him.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "leave instructions", ensure the context clearly indicates who is providing the instructions and for whom they are intended.

Common error

Avoid ambiguity by specifying the type of instructions being left (e.g. "leave detailed instructions", "leave specific instructions") and the intended recipient.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "leave instructions" functions primarily as a verb phrase where "leave" acts as the verb, and "instructions" is the noun acting as the direct object. Ludwig shows it's used to describe the act of providing guidance.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Wiki

16%

Encyclopedias

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "leave instructions" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe providing guidance or directions, as confirmed by Ludwig. Its usage is prevalent in news and media, as well as in more informal contexts like wikis. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is used to inform and direct others in the absence of the instruction giver. When writing, ensure clarity by specifying the type of instructions and the intended recipient. Alternatives such as "give instructions" or "provide guidance" can be used depending on the desired nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

give instructions

A more direct and common synonym.

set forth instructions

A more formal and emphatic way of giving instructions.

provide directions

Focuses on giving specific routes or pathways.

offer guidance

Emphasizes support and advice rather than precise steps.

specify guidelines

Focuses on setting parameters or rules.

impart advice

Highlights the sharing of knowledge or recommendations.

document procedures

Focuses on recording instructions for future reference.

issue directives

Implies a more authoritative or formal command.

stipulate conditions

Emphasizes laying down specific requirements.

prescribe procedures

Highlights a formal, often medical, set of steps.

FAQs

How can I use "leave instructions" in a sentence?

You can use "leave instructions" to indicate providing guidance or directions, as in "Please leave instructions for operating the machine before you go."

What is a good alternative to "leave instructions"?

Alternatives include "give instructions", "provide guidance", or "offer directions" depending on the context.

Is it better to "give instructions" or "leave instructions"?

Both "give instructions" and "leave instructions" are correct. "Give instructions" implies a more active, direct act of providing information, while "leave instructions" suggests providing information to be followed later in your absence.

What does it mean to "leave instructions in a will"?

To "leave instructions in a will" means to provide specific directions or wishes regarding the distribution of assets, funeral arrangements, or other important matters to be carried out after one's death.