was instructed that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "was instructed that" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when conveying that someone received specific instructions or directives regarding a particular matter. Example: "He was instructed that all reports must be submitted by Friday."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

41 human-written examples

He was instructed that he had three career choices: doctor, lawyer or engineer.

The New York Times - Books

Accordingly, the jury was instructed that the petitioner employed a scheme to defraud if he "did not disclose..

Cornell University

The museum was instructed that the painting should not be returned to Italy until the ownership is established, she said.

The New York Times

And the jury was instructed that it could consider the second confession, only if it found it voluntary, and that it could convict in that case.

Cornell University

Prior to the advance, Com pany C was instructed that if any firing was to be done, it would be done by one man firing in the air.

The New York Times

I tried e-mailing my downloaded files to a friend's PC, but he was instructed that he first had to subscribe to the service.

The New York Times - Tech

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

19 human-written examples

"You are instructed that you are the ultimate judge of fact in this case.

The New York Times

In many states, juries are instructed that it is an option.

The New York Times

You are instructed that the statements charged in the indictment are material statements". App. 24, 29.

Cornell University

And witnesses should be instructed that a lineup might not include the perpetrator.

The New Yorker

Welbeck had been instructed that if this moment arrived he should keep the ball low.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "was instructed that", ensure the context clearly indicates who issued the instruction and the nature of their authority. This adds clarity and strengthens the statement's impact.

Common error

Avoid using "was instructed that" without specifying the source of the instruction. Omitting this information can lead to confusion and weaken the credibility of the statement. Always clarify who provided the instruction.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "was instructed that" functions as a passive construction used to indicate that a subject received specific directives or commands. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase is considered grammatically correct and usable in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

30%

Science

30%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "was instructed that" is a grammatically correct and commonly used passive construction to indicate that someone received specific directives or commands. Ludwig AI affirms its usability across various contexts. While generally neutral in tone, it is more suited for professional, academic, and journalistic writing. Consider alternatives like "was told that" or "was directed that" depending on the desired level of formality and emphasis on authority. Remember to clearly attribute the source of the instruction to avoid ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

received instructions that

A more descriptive alternative emphasizing the act of receiving instructions.

was directed that

Similar to "was instructed that" but often suggests a slightly higher level of authority or a more formal setting.

had been directed to

Alternative phrasing indicating a past instruction, with 'directed' implying authority.

was told that

A less formal alternative implying a simple conveyance of information, without necessarily indicating an order or command.

was ordered that

Similar to 'was commanded that', indicating an official or authoritative directive.

was commanded that

Indicates a strong, authoritative order or command, often from a superior.

was required that

Highlights the obligatory nature of the action, emphasizing that it was not optional.

was advised that

Suggests a recommendation or guidance rather than a strict order, implying some degree of choice or consideration.

was informed that

Focuses on the conveyance of information rather than the issuing of a command.

was given to understand that

Implies a more indirect form of instruction, where the information is conveyed subtly or implicitly.

FAQs

How can I use "was instructed that" in a sentence?

Use "was instructed that" to indicate that someone received specific instructions or directives. For example, "The soldier "was instructed that" he should patrol the area every night".

What are some alternatives to "was instructed that"?

Alternatives include "was told that", "was directed that", or "was advised that" depending on the level of formality and the context.

Is "was instructed that" formal or informal?

"Was instructed that" is generally considered neutral to formal. It's suitable for professional, academic, and journalistic writing. More informal contexts might prefer "was told that".

What is the difference between "was instructed that" and "was informed that"?

"Was instructed that" implies a directive or command, whereas "was informed that" simply indicates the conveyance of information. The former suggests an action to be taken, while the latter simply indicates knowledge gained.