we were instructed to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we were instructed to" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to directives or orders given by someone in authority. Example: "We were instructed to complete the report by the end of the week."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

"We were instructed to play it.

The New York Times - Sports

We were instructed to reply to every email.

The Guardian - Books

"Madam, he said, "we were instructed to be gay".

The New Yorker

We were instructed to keep our window shades up.

The New York Times

We were instructed to jot down an undeveloped answer.

The New York Times

He then proceeded to freak out when we were instructed to stand on our heads.

The New York Times

We were instructed to try to answer every question as diplomatically as possible.

The New Yorker

"We were instructed to do only the hits," he said, which broke up the crowd.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

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

The New Yorker

As for Steve and Randi, they fall in love, or so we're instructed to believe.

The New York Times

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

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use this phrase when you want to emphasize that you were following directions, especially in formal or official contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "we were instructed to" without specifying who gave the instructions. Vague attribution can weaken the statement's credibility. Instead of saying "We were instructed to proceed", specify "The manager instructed us to proceed".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we were instructed to" functions as a reporting clause, indicating that the subject received directions or commands from an external source. As evidenced by Ludwig, this construction is commonly used to convey that a specific action was carried out following explicit instructions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "we were instructed to" is a versatile construction used to denote actions taken under specific directions. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically sound and broadly applicable across diverse contexts, particularly in news and media, formal communications, and scientific reporting. While alternatives like "we were told to" and "we were directed to" exist, choosing the right substitute depends on the desired level of formality and authority. When using "we were instructed to", clarity in attribution is key to maintaining credibility.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we were directed to

Replaces "instructed" with "directed", implying a more formal or official command.

we were told to

Uses "told" instead of "instructed", making the phrase more informal.

we were ordered to

Substitutes "instructed" with "ordered", suggesting a stronger, less negotiable command.

we were commanded to

Replaces "instructed" with "commanded", indicating a high level of authority giving the instruction.

we received instructions to

Reformulates the sentence to emphasize the receipt of instructions.

we were advised to

Uses "advised" instead of "instructed", softening the tone to a recommendation.

we were requested to

Replaces "instructed" with "requested", making the phrase more polite and less assertive.

it was our instruction to

Changes the sentence structure to focus on the instruction itself rather than the act of being instructed.

our orders were to

Focuses on the orders given, rather than the act of instructing.

we had orders to

Uses "had orders" implying previous instruction with focus on the order itself.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "we were instructed to" in a formal context?

In formal situations, you can substitute "we were instructed to" with phrases such as "we were directed to" or "it was our instruction to" for a more professional tone.

Is "we were instructed to" appropriate for informal writing?

While grammatically correct, "we were instructed to" might sound overly formal in casual conversation. Consider using alternatives like "we were told to" or "we were asked to" for a more relaxed tone.

What is the difference between "we were instructed to" and "we were ordered to"?

"We were instructed to" implies guidance or direction, while "we were ordered to" suggests a command with less room for negotiation. The choice depends on the nature of the direction received.

When should I use "we were instructed to" over "we were advised to"?

Use "we were instructed to" when the direction is mandatory or a requirement. Use "we were advised to" when the direction is a suggestion or recommendation.