under instruction from

USAGE SUMMARY

The expression "under instruction from" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when a person or entity has received instructions or orders from someone else that they are now obliged to follow. For example: "The staff at the hotel was working under instruction from the manager".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

40 human-written examples

The team, under instruction from its coach, was simply intent on not losing the derby.

The New York Times - Sports

Yet Guus Hiddink, under instruction from the hierarchy, might lean slightly heavier on academy some of the youngsters.

The Guardian - Sport

Leeds and Chelsea players will be under instruction from police to be on their best behaviour tonight.

Independent

Nico Rosberg behaved impeccably in holding his station under instruction from Mercedes team principal Ross Brawn on the pit wall.

Independent

In May 2011, a consultant named David Kemp from DK Planning, under instruction from Stark, sent the first part of a planning application to Camden council.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

He smiled tightly when Mr. Obama spoke, perhaps under instruction from aides not to be grumpy as he attacked on multiple fronts.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

20 human-written examples

Both allege they were operating under instructions from Shrien Dewani.

The Guardian

The rules were written by the Labor Department, under instructions from the White House.

The New York Times

Under instructions from lawyers, they don't apologize or offer explanations when things go wrong.

The New York Times

(Under instructions from her lawyers, she used pseudonyms for most of the players).

The New York Times

He did so, Dowd said, under instructions from A. Bartlett Giamatti, then the commissioner.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "under instruction from" to clearly indicate that an action is being performed because someone else has directed it, which is helpful in clarifying responsibility or explaining actions taken.

Common error

Avoid using "under instruction from" if the guidance received was merely a suggestion or recommendation. This phrase implies a direct order or mandate, not just advice.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "under instruction from" functions as a prepositional phrase, modifying a verb or noun to indicate the source of direction or command. This shows who is providing the specific instructions that are being followed. Ludwig confirms its correctness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "under instruction from" is a grammatically sound and frequently used prepositional phrase that clarifies the origin of directions or commands. According to Ludwig, the phrase is correct and appropriate for indicating that an action is performed due to someone else's explicit guidance. It's versatile enough for news, academic writing, and business communications, emphasizing obedience or assigned responsibility. When considering alternatives, ""as directed by"" and "on the orders of" offer similar meanings with slight differences in emphasis. This analysis ensures confident and precise usage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as directed by

Focuses on the act of directing, implying a more direct order.

on the orders of

Emphasizes the authority giving the instruction.

following the directions of

Similar meaning, but puts more emphasis on the directions themselves.

pursuant to the guidance of

More formal and legalistic, indicating adherence to guidelines.

at the behest of

More formal and emphasizes the power dynamic.

in accordance with the recommendations of

More formal and suggests adherence to specific recommendations.

following the lead of

Suggests imitation or following an example, less direct than an order.

as per the guidelines of

Highlights compliance with established guidelines.

acting on the advice of

Implies counsel or suggestion rather than a strict command.

guided by

Focuses on the guiding influence, less specific about instructions.

FAQs

How can I use "under instruction from" in a sentence?

Use "under instruction from" to show that someone is following specific directions or commands. For example, "The soldier moved "as directed by" his commanding officer".

What are some alternatives to saying "under instruction from"?

You can use alternatives like ""as directed by"", "on the orders of", or "pursuant to the guidance of" depending on the context.

Is it more formal to say "under instruction from" or "following advice from"?

"Under instruction from" is generally more formal, suggesting a direct order. "Following advice from" implies a recommendation that is being heeded, but not necessarily mandated.

What's the difference between "under instruction from" and "under the direction of"?

While similar, "under instruction from" specifically highlights that someone is following a set of precise commands. "Under the direction of" suggests a broader oversight and guidance, without necessarily implying strict orders.