wait for instructions

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "wait for instructions" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when advising someone to pause their actions until they receive further guidance or directions. Example: "Before proceeding with the project, please wait for instructions from your supervisor."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Wiki

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

He didn't wait for instructions from someone in Washington.

The Washington Post

Its members do not need to wait for instructions from on high.

The Guardian - Opinion

In journalism, you will never, ever survive if you wait for instructions.

The Guardian

Are we meant to talk to it, simply be in its presence, or wait for instructions?

The Guardian - Arts

Jay not authorized to make any cession of territory and must wait for instructions from Congress.

Columbia University

Abu Ali sent a message to that man, who wrote back and told him to wait for instructions.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

33 human-written examples

"Troops will wait for instruction and guidance," he said.

The New Yorker

"We come from a telling culture, where we wait for instruction, but if you reimagine that dynamic it will make you stand out as different, as someone to pay attention to," she says.

The Guardian

To pass the time while we wait for instruction from staff on the 7.30am Dublin to Belfast Enterprise service, I peruse the coverage of the proposed royal visit to Ireland next month.

The Guardian

Although less experienced, he wasn't one to sit around and wait for instruction.

Los Angeles Times

Many of the people here are waiting for instructions from the men they call their chief.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "wait for instructions", ensure the context clearly indicates who will be providing the instructions and the expected timeframe for receiving them. This adds clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid assuming the instructions will cover every detail. Be prepared to use your judgment and problem-solving skills within the guidelines provided. Over-reliance on explicit instructions can hinder independent thinking and adaptability.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "wait for instructions" primarily functions as an imperative, advising or directing someone to postpone action until receiving further guidance. As Ludwig AI confirms, this expression is grammatically sound and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Academia

16%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Encyclopedias

4%

Science

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "wait for instructions" is a grammatically correct and common expression used to advise or direct someone to postpone action until receiving further guidance. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is suitable for various contexts, ranging from neutral to formal. While taking initiative is often valued, it's crucial to "wait for instructions" when lacking necessary information or authority. Alternatives include "await guidance", "hold for directions", and "stand by for orders".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

await guidance

Focuses on the anticipation of direction, often in a formal setting.

hold for directions

Suggests a temporary pause, specifically related to receiving directions.

pause for guidance

Emphasizes the act of pausing to receive assistance.

stand by for orders

Common in military or hierarchical contexts, indicating readiness to act.

remain on hold for directions

Implies a longer waiting period, specifically for directions.

stay put until directed

Highlights the importance of remaining in place until further notice.

refrain from acting until informed

A formal way of saying to not take action before receiving information.

defer to leadership

Emphasis is on respect for authority and not acting before those with authority.

suspend action pending notification

Suggests a temporary halt in activity until notification is received

take no action until advised

Avoid starting something without external recommendations or guidance

FAQs

How can I use "wait for instructions" in a sentence?

You can use "wait for instructions" when advising someone to postpone action until further guidance is provided. For example: "Please "wait for instructions" from the project manager before proceeding."

What are some alternatives to "wait for instructions"?

Alternatives include "await guidance", "hold for directions", or "stand by for orders", depending on the formality and context.

Is it better to "wait for instructions" or take initiative?

It depends on the situation. While initiative is valuable, "waiting for instructions" is appropriate when you lack the necessary information or authority to act independently. Consider whether your actions could negatively impact others or compromise established processes.

What's the difference between "wait for instructions" and "wait for orders"?

"Wait for orders" typically implies a more formal, hierarchical setting, such as the military or a structured organization. "Wait for instructions" is more general and can apply to a broader range of situations where guidance is needed.