under strict instructions

USAGE SUMMARY

"under strict instructions" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to emphasize that someone is following orders or instructions that they must adhere to. For example, "The soldiers were working under strict instructions to finish the job quickly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Five weeks ago, Rodgers Rop began the Berlin Marathon under strict instructions.

The New York Times - Sports

Colonel Hirsch said his soldiers were under strict instructions to fire only when fired at.

The New York Times

My wife is pregnant so I'm under strict instructions to be back on Christmas Eve.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Tonight Este is under strict instructions to keep it clean, but she can't help herself.

The Guardian - Music

As a result interviewers are under strict instructions not to bring up anything remotely personal.

The New York Times

The director was under "strict instructions" from Laurent Gbagbo's government not to say anything.

Independent

"I'm under strict instructions from my lawyers not to say this," says #Murdoch.

The New York Times

At one point, he said he was under strict instructions not to break news onstage.

The New York Times

The UN is under strict instructions not to move anything, not even a pepperpot in Cafe Otto.

The Guardian

The femme de ménage appears twice a week but must be under strict instructions not to disturb the resident creepies.

Independent

That is why the crews of most shipping companies are under strict instructions to follow pirates' orders to the letter.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "under strict instructions", ensure that the context clearly indicates who is giving the instructions and who is following them. This provides clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid assuming that "under strict instructions" implies absolute authority. While it indicates a strong directive, it doesn't necessarily mean the instructions are ethical or legally sound. Always consider the source and legitimacy of the instructions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "under strict instructions" functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb, indicating the manner in which an action is performed. It specifies that the action is carried out according to a set of firm and non-negotiable directives. Ludwig examples confirm this usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

98%

Formal & Business

1%

Wiki

1%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "under strict instructions" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to convey that someone is obligated to follow a specific set of rules or orders. As confirmed by Ludwig, it functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb and emphasizing the mandatory nature of an action. The analysis of usage patterns shows that it appears most frequently in news and media sources, and it maintains a neutral to professional register. When using the phrase, clarity is key: make sure to specify who is giving the instructions and who is following them. Consider alternatives like "under explicit orders" or "under firm directives" to fine-tune the nuance of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

under explicit orders

Replaces "instructions" with "orders", emphasizing the authoritative nature of the directive.

under firm directives

Substitutes "strict" with "firm" and "instructions" with "directives", suggesting a resolute and clear set of guidelines.

under mandatory guidelines

Replaces "strict instructions" with "mandatory guidelines", highlighting the obligatory nature of the rules.

with specific stipulations

Shifts the focus to the conditions or requirements that must be met, rather than the act of instructing.

bound by stringent regulations

Emphasizes the restrictive nature of the rules and the obligation to adhere to them.

operating under a tight leash

Uses a metaphorical expression to convey the idea of being closely controlled and monitored.

with binding provisions

Highlights the legally enforceable aspect of the instructions.

subject to rigorous protocol

Indicates adherence to a strict and detailed set of procedures.

following a rigid framework

Emphasizes the inflexibility and structured nature of the guidelines.

pursuant to detailed procedures

Formal alternative, indicating action taken in accordance with specified procedures.

FAQs

How can I use "under strict instructions" in a sentence?

You can use "under strict instructions" to indicate that someone is obligated to follow a specific set of rules or orders. For example, "The employees were "under strict instructions" not to disclose any confidential information".

What are some alternatives to saying "under strict instructions"?

Alternatives include "under explicit orders", "under firm directives", or "following mandatory guidelines". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to use "under strict instructions" or "under strict orders"?

Both phrases are acceptable, but "under strict instructions" is slightly more general and can apply to various types of guidance, while "under strict orders" typically refers to a command from a superior authority.

What does "under strict instructions" imply about the person giving the instructions?

It implies that the person giving the instructions has authority over the person receiving them, and that the instructions are important and must be followed precisely. It does not necessarily imply anything about the character or motivations of the person giving the instructions.