receive instruction

USAGE SUMMARY

"receive instruction" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it whenever you are referring to someone receiving instructions from a teacher or other source. For example, "The students were eager to receive instruction from the professor."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They do not receive instruction in the minor leagues, either.

The New York Times - Sports

"Did you receive instruction to do this to the shotgun?" "Yes," was the answer again.

The New York Times

The public will be able to tee off and receive instruction at the hole starting Friday.

The New York Times

Once a week, players receive instruction about topics like H.I.V., domestic violence and self-confidence.

The New York Times - Sports

Patients receive instruction on diet, exercise and cholesterol management; smokers are placed in a course to help them quit.

The New York Times

Through the high windows he could see students continuing to receive instruction in Marxist biology and Marxist math.

The New Yorker

Photograph: Alec Luhn/RT.com screengrab Updated at 10.30am GMT 10.28am GMT Ukrainian volunteer recruits receive instruction in Independence Square, Kiev.

The Guardian

UConn players describe how the program, from team meetings to how the players receive instruction, has been run more professionally.

The New York Times - Sports

The Seventh will receive instruction on its new medium from the 62nd Coast Artillery, Anti-Aircraft, now stationed at Fort Totten.

The New Yorker

Veterans, it says, should go on a fortnight's refresher course each year to receive instruction in the "latest arts of using weapons, military planning and military technologies".

The Guardian

In New Jersey, all 2,700 state troopers were required to receive instruction on how to classify a motorist's race by judging "skin color" and "facial characteristics".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using synonyms like "get taught" or "learn from" for a less formal tone.

Common error

Avoid using "receive instruction" in very casual conversations. Opt for more informal alternatives like "get lessons" or "learn from" when speaking with friends or family.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "receive instruction" is as a verb phrase. It typically functions as the predicate of a sentence, indicating the action of being taught or educated. Ludwig AI confirms this with numerous examples demonstrating its usage across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "receive instruction" is a grammatically correct and very common verb phrase used to describe the act of being taught or educated. Ludwig AI confirms its usage across diverse contexts, from formal education to professional training. While generally neutral to formal, it's essential to consider the context and choose appropriate synonyms like "learn from" or "be taught" for more informal settings. Remember to use "receive instruction" when emphasizing structured learning and avoid it in casual conversations for better clarity and appropriateness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

get taught

This alternative uses simpler vocabulary, making it slightly more informal.

learn from

This focuses on the learning aspect, emphasizing the source of knowledge.

be educated

This phrase emphasizes the process of gaining knowledge and skills.

be trained

This emphasizes the practical skills acquired through instruction.

undergo training

This suggests a more structured and formal learning experience.

take lessons

This is a more active and intentional way of saying receive instruction.

attend classes

This refers specifically to attending formal lessons or courses.

be coached

This implies personalized instruction and guidance.

gain knowledge

This focuses on the outcome of receiving instruction – acquiring knowledge.

acquire skills

This highlights the development of specific abilities through training.

FAQs

How can I use "receive instruction" in a sentence?

You can use "receive instruction" to describe the act of being taught or guided. For example, "The new recruits will "receive training" in combat techniques."

What are some alternatives to "receive instruction"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "learn from", "be taught", or "get coached".

Is it more formal to say "receive instruction" or "get taught"?

"Receive instruction" is generally more formal than "get taught". Use "receive instruction" in professional or academic settings, and "get taught" in more casual contexts.

How does "receive instruction" differ from "receive instructions"?

"Receive instruction" refers to the overall process of being taught or educated, while "receive instructions" refers to getting specific directions or commands. The former is broad, while the latter is specific.