received instructions

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "received instructions" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when indicating that someone has been given or has obtained specific directions or guidelines to follow. Example: "After reviewing the project requirements, I received instructions from my supervisor on how to proceed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The participants received instructions and immediately started with the event-completion task.

Cognitive Research: Principles and Implications

I have just received instructions".

The New Yorker

And other agencies have received instructions about their forthcoming moves.

The Guardian

The 111 fifth and sixth grade participants (mean age 11.8) received instructions about Word's formatting options.

Computers & Education

At this moment in time I've not received instructions to desist".

The Guardian

In Zhongguangcun, Beijing's electronic retail heartland, shop staff said they had not received instructions.

The Guardian

Martindale has now been invited, having received instructions not to speak at the meeting.

The Guardian

Daniel received instructions that Otpor activists were to be treated as "terrorists".

The New York Times - Magazine

The audience, arranged in two rows with a stage in between, received instructions.

The New York Times - Arts

That was why the prosecutor had received instructions to ask for thirteen months.

The New Yorker

He said he received instructions from an imam at a mosque near Kufa.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "received instructions", ensure the context clearly indicates who provided the instructions and what the instructions pertained to. This adds clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "received instructions" in a way that obscures who gave the instructions. Instead of saying "Instructions were received", specify who received them and from whom to maintain clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "received instructions" functions as a verbal phrase, indicating the action of obtaining directions or commands. This is supported by Ludwig, which shows numerous examples of its usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

49%

Science

47%

Formal & Business

2%

Less common in

Wiki

1%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "received instructions" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase, as validated by Ludwig AI. It effectively communicates the action of obtaining directions or commands, and it is used across a broad spectrum of formal and informal contexts. While generally neutral in register, its specific tone can be adjusted by the context in which it is used. As the numerous examples show, clarity is key when detailing who "received instructions" from whom. By keeping these recommendations in mind, you can make an effective use of the phrase in your writings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

were told what to do

A more direct and simple way of expressing the same meaning.

were given directions

Focuses on the act of giving directions rather than receiving.

were briefed

Suggests a more formal and concise set of instructions.

were informed

Implies being told something, which may or may not include explicit instructions.

were guided

Focuses on the aspect of guidance and assistance.

were advised

Implies receiving guidance or recommendations, not necessarily commands.

were shown how to

Emphasizes the practical demonstration aspect of the instructions.

were commanded

Indicates a more authoritative and forceful type of instruction.

were taught

Suggests a learning process, implying more detailed and educational instructions.

were mandated

Emphasizes that the instructions were compulsory.

FAQs

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

You can use "received instructions" to indicate that someone has been given specific directions or guidelines to follow. For example, "The soldiers "received instructions" before the mission."

What are some alternatives to "received instructions"?

You can use alternatives like "were given directions", "were informed", or "were briefed" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "received instructions" or "were given instructions"?

Both "received instructions" and "were given instructions" are grammatically correct and convey the same meaning. The choice depends on your writing style and the desired emphasis.

What does it mean to have "received instructions from a higher authority"?

To have "received instructions from a higher authority" implies that the directions or orders came from someone in a superior position of power or responsibility. This phrase often suggests a formal or hierarchical structure.