take instructions from

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "take instructions from" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to the act of receiving or following guidance or orders from someone. Example: "As a new employee, I am expected to take instructions from my supervisor during the training period."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

43 human-written examples

"Defense counsel have to take instructions from the client," he said.

The New York Times

At the time the party was dominated by Russian émigrés prone to take instructions from Moscow.

The Guardian

They are expressly forbidden to take instructions from their member state.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The Maastricht treaty says that the ECB cannot take instructions from finance ministers.

The Economist

But he would not be Bristol's envoy to Parliament, nor take instructions from his electors.

The Economist

It is to put your creativity at the service of the formula and take instructions from the executive apparatchiki.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

17 human-written examples

We would simply take instruction from consultants on gender struggle.

The Guardian - Opinion

But at least as important was Goltzius's desire to take instruction from the classics.

The New Yorker

"I don't know what kind of people would take instruction from a shirt that you find at a store.

The New York Times

Carney rebuked May a week ago by saying the BoE, which operates independently of the government, would not take instruction from politicians.

The Guardian - Business

At Motown, singers were required to take instruction from Mrs. Powell for two hours a day whenever they were in Detroit.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing, consider the power dynamic implied by "take instructions from". It suggests a subordinate role, so use it when that relationship is accurate and relevant.

Common error

Ensure the source of the instructions is clear. Vague phrasing can lead to confusion about who or what is providing the directions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "take instructions from" functions as a verb phrase, indicating the action of receiving and following guidance or commands. Ludwig examples demonstrate its use across various contexts, from professional settings to personal relationships.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Formal & Business

25%

Science

10%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "take instructions from" is a grammatically sound and widely used expression that describes the act of following guidance or commands, according to Ludwig AI. Its primary function is to indicate a relationship of subordination or adherence to rules. While usable in a variety of contexts, it's most frequently found in news, business, and science. When using this phrase, ensure that the source of the instructions is clear to avoid any ambiguity. Consider alternatives like "receive guidance from" or "follow orders from" to adjust the nuance of your writing. The phrase is suitable for neutral to professional registers.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

receive guidance from

Emphasizes the act of getting advice or direction, which may be less direct than specific commands.

follow orders from

Highlights the hierarchical aspect, implying a command structure.

obey commands from

Stresses compliance and a strict adherence to directives.

act on directions from

Emphasizes the execution of given instructions.

adhere to guidelines from

Focuses on following established procedures or recommendations.

respond to directives from

Focuses on reaction and implementation when instructions are given.

be guided by

Suggests a broader influence, where instructions are less direct but still shape actions.

heed advice from

Implies considering and acting upon suggestions, often from a trusted source.

be subordinate to

Highlights a hierarchical relationship where one party is in a position of authority.

accept leadership from

Focuses on acknowledging someone's authority and following their guidance.

FAQs

What does "take instructions from" mean?

The phrase "take instructions from" means to receive and follow directions or orders given by someone in a position of authority or expertise. It implies a hierarchical relationship where one person is guiding or directing the actions of another.

How can I use "take instructions from" in a sentence?

You can use "take instructions from" to describe a situation where someone is being directed by another, such as: "As a new employee, you'll need to "take instructions from" your supervisor" or "The robot is programmed to "take instructions from" the central computer".

What are some alternatives to "take instructions from"?

Alternatives to "take instructions from" include "receive guidance from", "follow orders from", or "obey commands from". The best alternative depends on the specific context and the nature of the relationship between the parties involved.

Is it more appropriate to say "take instructions from" or "receive instructions from"?

Both "take instructions from" and "receive instructions from" are grammatically correct and commonly used. "Take instructions from" emphasizes the act of actively following directions, while "receive instructions from" focuses more on the act of getting the directions. The choice depends on the nuance you want to convey.