looking for instruction

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "looking for instruction" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when expressing a desire to receive guidance or direction on a particular topic or task. Example: "I am currently looking for instruction on how to use this software effectively."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Anyone who has spent time thumbing through the thin, smudged pages of a paperback edition of one of David's books, looking for instruction and finding joy, will be shocked by the result.

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

I drop by one evening and find the carer randomly opening pill boxes looking for instructions.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Fund managers are not schoolchildren looking for instructions on what to buy.

The New York Times

If you work at home, or not at all, renovation can become a kind of dream job: employees show up every morning looking for instructions, and there's nobody to overrule you.

The New York Times

Similarly, the home of Mr. Karzai, which is serving as an information headquarters manned by two of his brothers, was filled with visitors looking for "instructions," according to a Karzai relative on duty at the gate.

The New York Times

Look for instruction locally or online.

WikiHow

I should stay home if I'm not feeling well, and should look for instructions from my local health authorities.

Huffington Post

Look for instructions.

WikiHow

Look for instructions on the printer.

WikiHow

Start there and look for instructions.

WikiHow

Look for instructions on how to return the merchandise.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "looking for instruction", ensure the context clearly indicates what kind of instruction is being sought. For instance, specify the subject matter or skill you need guidance on.

Common error

Don't use "looking for instruction" without specifying the area of instruction. Instead of saying 'I'm looking for instruction', specify 'I'm looking for instruction on how to bake a cake'.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "looking for instruction" functions as a verbal phrase indicating an active search for guidance or direction. Ludwig provides examples that illustrate its usage in various contexts, from seeking educational material to practical how-to guides.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Wiki

38%

News & Media

38%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "looking for instruction" is a grammatically correct and commonly used way to express a need for guidance or direction. As Ludwig AI states, the phrase is usable in written English and suggests a desire to learn a new skill or understand a process. Usage is versatile, though clarity regarding the subject of instruction is key. While appropriate across a variety of contexts, more formal alternatives like "seeking guidance" may be preferable in professional or academic settings. Consider specifying the type of instruction sought to avoid ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

seeking guidance

Focuses on seeking advice or support, often implying a personal or mentorship context.

searching for direction

Emphasizes the need for a clear path or goal, suitable when lost or uncertain.

requesting guidance

Highlights the act of formally asking for advice or instructions.

in search of guidance

Similar to "seeking guidance" but may suggest a more prolonged or dedicated effort.

wanting instructions

Direct and simple, indicating a clear need for step-by-step directions.

needing direction

Emphasizes the necessity of having a clear course of action.

desiring guidance

Formal and emphasizes a strong wish for advice or direction.

pursuing guidance

Implies actively seeking advice or mentorship over time.

exploring instructional resources

Suggests a broader search across multiple sources of instruction.

researching tutorials

Focuses specifically on finding instructional guides and tutorials.

FAQs

How can I use "looking for instruction" in a sentence?

You can use "looking for instruction" to express your need for guidance or direction on a specific topic or task. For example, "I am currently "looking for instruction" on how to use this software effectively."

What can I say instead of "looking for instruction"?

You can use alternatives like "seeking guidance", "searching for direction", or "wanting instructions" depending on the context.

Is it formal or informal to use "looking for instruction"?

"Looking for instruction" is generally considered neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, although more formal alternatives like "requesting guidance" might be preferable in certain professional settings.

What's the difference between "looking for instruction" and "looking for information"?

"Looking for instruction" implies a need for guidance on how to do something, while "looking for information" simply means seeking facts or details about a topic. The former suggests a desire to learn a skill or process, while the latter is about gathering knowledge.