we are instructed

USAGE SUMMARY

"we are instructed" is a correct and usable part of a sentence in written English.
You can use it to describe when someone or people are given directions or orders. For example: We are instructed to complete the project by the end of next week.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Some began: "We are instructed by our client..."...

The Guardian - Money

We are instructed by his contributions, but the narrative is neither informed nor enlivened by them.

The Guardian - Books

We are instructed to remain silent and to allow Christ's presence to diffuse in us.

The New Yorker

"We are instructed that the allegations are false," read Mishcon de Reya's letter, dated 13 June.

The Guardian

Even if you are beaten down, we are instructed, cultivate confidence.

The New York Times

"We are instructed that it is not possible in the time available and that the transaction will nevertheless proceed".

The Guardian - Business

We are instructed not to look at a person's achievements but to feel his or her pain.

The Guardian

Next, we are instructed to calculate the area of the square plots on the sides and add them together.

The New Yorker

We are instructed to request an autopsy on everyone as a means of confirming the cause of death and catching our mistakes.

The New Yorker

Yet they give the impression to borrowers that their case has been escalated to a third party, using legal language such as "We are instructed by our client" and "We are likely to be instructed to commence court proceedings".

The Guardian - Money

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

We have reached the point where we are spending more time assessing (and directing the results of those assessments) than we are instructing.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "we are instructed" when highlighting an authoritative command or direction; consider "we were told" for less formal contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "we are instructed" excessively, as it can lead to passive voice overuse. Sometimes, rephrasing to an active voice, such as "our manager instructed us", can make your writing more direct and engaging.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we are instructed" functions as a passive construction indicating that a group (represented by "we") has received directions or orders from an authority. It emphasizes the reception of instructions rather than the source. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Academia

14%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Science

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "we are instructed" is a common and grammatically sound construction used to convey that a group has received a directive from an external authority. Analysis reveals that its purpose is often to justify or explain actions by highlighting the mandatory nature of the instruction. As Ludwig AI clarifies, this phrase fits within various writing styles, from formal to informal contexts, but is most frequently seen in News & Media. While generally neutrally toned, it’s important to be mindful of passive voice overuse. By considering synonyms and context, users can ensure their writing remains precise and engaging.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we have been told

Focuses on the act of receiving information rather than the obligation to act.

we are directed

Emphasizes the act of being given a specific course of action to follow.

we are advised

Implies receiving a recommendation or suggestion, less forceful than an instruction.

we are ordered

Conveys a stronger sense of command and authority.

we are required

Highlights the mandatory nature of the action.

it is our understanding

Shifts the focus to comprehension and interpretation rather than direct instruction.

our instructions are

Changes the sentence structure to focus on the instructions themselves.

we understand that we must

Rephrases the instruction as a matter of comprehension and necessity.

we are under orders

Specifically emphasizes being under someone's command.

we are compelled

Highlights that the instruction is being enforced or is not optional.

FAQs

How can I use "we are instructed" in a sentence?

"We are instructed" is used to convey that a group has received directions or orders. For example, "We are instructed to complete the task by Friday" indicates a mandatory directive.

What phrases are similar to "we are instructed"?

Alternatives include "we have been told", "we are directed", or "we are advised", each carrying slightly different implications regarding authority and obligation.

Is it better to use "we are instructed" or "we were told"?

"We are instructed" implies a formal directive, whereas "we were told" is more neutral. Choose based on the formality of the context; use "we are instructed" for commands, and "we were told" for general information.

What's the difference between "we are instructed" and "we are required"?

"We are instructed" emphasizes the act of receiving directions, while "we are required" highlights the obligation to fulfill a requirement. If the focus is on who gave the order, use "we are instructed"; if on the necessity of action, use "we are required".