when instructed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "when instructed" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that an action should be taken at the time someone gives specific directions or commands. Example: "Please complete the task when instructed by your supervisor."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

"Southeastern operates a contingency timetable only when instructed to by Network Rail - the railway infrastructure provider".

BBC

Even when instructed not to.

The New York Times

"Making a false response when instructed to do so is not a lie," she says.

The New Yorker

Some have been known to roll their eyes when instructed to chant while doing crunches.

The New York Times

Most illegal immigration in recent years has resulted when people who arrive on legal visas fail to leave when instructed.

The Washington Post

In the functional localizer scans, the participants performed both duration and orientation discrimination tasks, switching between tasks when instructed.

Nature

When instructed to purchase an item, Shopper would search for it, visiting shops at random until the item was found.

Britannica

They found the "2" even faster when instructed to "ignore the 5s," as opposed to "ignore the distracters".

The New York Times - Science

Howard failed to back off when instructed by officials and was thrown out with 17:51 left.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

In the functional localizer scans, the participants performed both duration and orientation tasks, switching between tasks when instructed.

Nature

Many cameras have a pets or children mode to capture those things that will not stand still when instructed.

The New York Times - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "when instructed" to clearly indicate that an action should only occur after specific directions are given. This avoids ambiguity and ensures compliance.

Common error

Avoid assuming that "when instructed" implies only formal, top-down directives. The phrase applies equally well to informal, peer-to-peer guidance. Do not think it always indicates a superior-subordinate relationship.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "when instructed" functions as an adverbial phrase, specifically a prepositional phrase acting as an adjunct. It modifies a verb or clause by providing information about time or condition. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Science

29%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Wiki

9%

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "when instructed" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed adverbial phrase that indicates actions should be performed only upon receiving specific directions. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, its versatility allows it to fit in various contexts, from academic and scientific writing to news reports and everyday instructions. To avoid ambiguity and ensure compliance, it's important to understand the scope of the instruction and not assume that it implies only formal, top-down directives. When in doubt, consider using similar phrases like "as directed", "upon command", or "as ordered" to fine-tune your message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as directed

This alternative is more concise and emphasizes adherence to a specific direction or guideline.

when directed

Very similar, yet focuses on direction, not necessarily instruction

as per instructions

Another similar variant, it emphasizes on following specific instructions.

upon command

This alternative suggests a more formal and authoritative context, implying a strict order.

as ordered

This alternative is similar to "upon command" but can also apply in less formal settings where an order is given.

on being told

This alternative is more conversational and emphasizes the act of receiving information.

under guidance

This alternative shifts the focus to the support and oversight provided during the action.

at the behest of

This alternative implies that the action is taken at someone's request or urging.

pursuant to instructions

This alternative is highly formal and legalistic, suggesting adherence to a set of documented instructions.

in accordance with directives

This alternative is also formal and emphasizes compliance with established directives or guidelines.

FAQs

How can I use "when instructed" in a sentence?

The phrase "when instructed" is used to indicate that an action should be performed upon receiving specific directions or commands. For instance, "Please submit your report "when instructed" by the project manager".

What phrases are similar to "when instructed"?

Similar phrases include "as directed", "upon command", or "as ordered". The best choice depends on the context and the level of formality you want to convey.

Is it more formal to say "when instructed" or "when told"?

"When instructed" typically implies a slightly more formal setting compared to "when told", suggesting a structured or official direction. "When told" is more general and can apply to casual conversations.

Can "when instructed" be used in technical documentation?

Yes, "when instructed" is suitable for technical documentation to guide users through specific steps. It provides clarity and ensures that users follow procedures in the correct sequence, or you could use "as directed" as an alternative.