may be instructed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "may be instructed" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when indicating that someone has the possibility or permission to receive instructions or guidance. Example: "The trainees may be instructed on the new software during the next session."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

34 human-written examples

A person may be instructed to pull a door "northwards" in order to open it.

University of California, Berkeley

In France, though, Rabelais portrayed saints as fools, and coined the phrase: "The wise may be instructed by a fool".

The Guardian

The user may statically select the management strategy, or alternatively the system may be instructed to set off different management schemes based on predefined performance thresholds.

Transportation Research Part A: Policy and Practice

In consultation with the Director of Physical Education, students may be instructed to contact Dr. Melanie Bernitz, Medical Director of Columbia Health Programs, who facilitates these evaluations.

Columbia University

Benz described that the girls may be instructed to do two ball changes, a spin, and then do two more ball changes.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Farmers and ranchers in this area may be instructed during an accident to put their animals in barns and use stored feed instead of allowing them to graze.

The New York Times - Health

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

26 human-written examples

This happens because we are burdened by two heavy things ― our own consciences, which may be instructing us to question or leave our childhood faiths, and the immeasurable and fierce love of parents who crossed oceans to give us a better life.

Huffington Post

At this point, the forensic (or failure) engineer may well be instructed to determine the cause or causes of such product demise.

Engineering Failure Analysis

Males may also be instructed like I was to get a PSA test, a screen that the U.S. Preventative Services Task Force no longer recommends.

Harvard Business Review

It may also be instructed to pause for a day to investigate the mineralogy of two imposing rocks between the landing site and Sleepy Hollow.

The New York Times

Target staff in the electronics area may also be instructed to tell any inquiring customers coming in with the DCIP number that the system is wrong.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "may be instructed" when indicating a possibility or potential for receiving instructions, rather than a certainty. This is especially useful in describing protocols or hypothetical scenarios.

Common error

While "may be instructed" is grammatically correct, excessive use of passive voice can make your writing sound unclear or indirect. Consider rephrasing sentences to use active voice where appropriate for a more direct and engaging style.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "may be instructed" functions as a passive construction, indicating the potential for someone to receive instructions. Ludwig shows its usage across various contexts, highlighting its role in describing protocols and possibilities.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Academia

23%

News & Media

29%

Science

29%

Less common in

Wiki

17%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "may be instructed" is a common phrase used to indicate the possibility of receiving instructions. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically sound and versatile, appearing across academic, news, scientific, and general contexts. While the phrase is correct, remember to check excessive use of passive voice in writing. Consider using active voice instead when appropriate. When choosing an alternative, keep in mind the context and desired emphasis, opting for phrases like "might be taught" or "could be directed" to match the specific nuance. Overall, "may be instructed" is useful for describing scenarios where guidance or direction is possible, and its usage is widespread across different domains.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

might be taught

Emphasizes the potential for learning or training.

could be guided

Focuses on receiving help and direction.

might receive guidance

Highlights the possibility of getting advice.

could be directed

Suggests being given specific instructions.

might be advised

Implies receiving recommendations or counsel.

could receive training

Highlights the potential for a structured learning experience.

might be coached

Focuses on personalized training and support.

could be mentored

Suggests a long-term supportive relationship for guidance.

might be schooled

Emphasizes formal education or instruction.

could get tutoring

Highlights the possibility of receiving individual instruction.

FAQs

How can I use "may be instructed" in a sentence?

You can use "may be instructed" to indicate that someone has the possibility of receiving instructions. For example, "New employees "may be instructed" on the company's safety procedures during their first week".

What phrases are similar to "may be instructed"?

Similar phrases include "might be taught", "could be guided", or "could be directed", each emphasizing different aspects of receiving guidance or direction.

When is it appropriate to use the passive voice construction "may be instructed"?

The passive voice is appropriate when the action is more important than the actor, or when the actor is unknown or unimportant. In the case of "may be instructed", it's useful when emphasizing the instruction itself rather than who is giving it.

Is there a difference between "may be instructed" and "will be instructed"?

"May be instructed" indicates a possibility or potential, while "will be instructed" suggests a certainty. Use ""may be instructed"" when the instruction is not guaranteed, and "will be instructed" when it is definite.