you were instructed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "you were instructed" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to someone who has received specific directions or orders in the past. Example: "As per the meeting notes, you were instructed to complete the report by Friday."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

Sometimes, in places like this, you have to treat what you are being given as you would those complicated fractions that you were instructed to simplify at school, by scratching out all the irrelevant stuff.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

For his final question, the prosecutor asked, "How do you feel about the way you were instructed to carry out your investigation?" "As for my feelings, I had none at the time," the detective replied.

The New York Times

A "Kellogg's paella" consisted of puffed Rice Krispies, to which the waiter added an intense seafood reduction; on the side were a small, flash-fried shrimp, a piece of shrimp sashimi and an ampule containing a thick brown extract of shrimp heads that you were instructed to squeeze into your mouth.

The New York Times - Magazine

Once at the Cerise Rooftop, you were instructed to drop off your gently used coat into a big red box; which served as your golden ticket to enter this exclusively elegant event.

Huffington Post

If it is not approved, act like you were instructed.

WikiHow

Go in for follow-up appointment if you were instructed to do so.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

Howard repeatedly asked Hands about the claims made against Prince, asserting that it was an "inescapable fact, you were instructing your solicitor to put through a statement of facts you knew to be false".

The Guardian

If you were instructing on cleaning coins, and wanted to stress the idea that harsh cleaning damages coins, you can bring the faces on the coins to life and have them moan in agony when they are treated harshly.

WikiHow

"In this case, the robot has an instruction that if you're instructed to do a task and it's possible that the instruction could do some harm, you're permitted to not do it".

TechCrunch

Stand where you are instructed to stand, and listen to any instructions on how to move.

WikiHow

Put the tray back onto your teeth and leave it there for the time you are instructed to do so either by your dentist or an instruction manual given to you by your kit.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "you were instructed", ensure the context clearly indicates who provided the instruction and what the instruction was. This adds clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid overusing passive voice constructions like "you were instructed", as it can make your writing sound less direct. Whenever possible, rephrase to use active voice for a more impactful statement. For example, instead of "you were instructed to do x", try "the teacher instructed you to do x".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "you were instructed" functions as a passive construction, indicating that the subject (you) received instructions from an unspecified agent. As Ludwig AI suggests, the phrase is usable in written English when referring to specific directions received.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Wiki

50%

News & Media

40%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "you were instructed" is a grammatically correct and commonly used passive construction that indicates someone received specific directions or orders. As per Ludwig AI analysis, the phrase is usable in written English. While it's versatile, consider using active voice for clarity. The phrase sees common usage across diverse categories, being Wiki and News & Media the most frequent ones. When writing, clearly specify who gave the instruction to prevent ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

you received instructions

Replaces 'instructed' with 'received instructions', emphasizing the reception of guidance.

you were directed

Uses 'directed' instead of 'instructed', suggesting a more straightforward command.

you were told

A simpler and more informal alternative, focusing on the act of being informed.

you were commanded

Implies a stronger sense of authority than "you were instructed".

you were ordered

Similar to 'commanded', indicating a formal order.

you were advised

Suggests guidance or a recommendation rather than a strict instruction.

you were shown how

Focuses on the demonstration or teaching aspect of the instruction.

you were trained

Highlights the aspect of learning and skill development.

it was your understanding

Shifts the focus to the recipient's interpretation of the directions given.

you were given to understand

Emphasizes that the instruction was subtly conveyed.

FAQs

What does "you were instructed" mean?

The phrase "you were instructed" means that someone was given specific directions or orders about what to do. It implies a degree of authority or expertise behind the instruction.

What can I say instead of "you were instructed"?

You can use alternatives like "you were directed", "you were told", or "you received instructions" depending on the specific context and level of formality.

How do I use "you were instructed" in a sentence?

You can use "you were instructed" when explaining that a person or group of people has been told what to do in a formal way. For example: "As per our previous correspondence, you were instructed to submit all documents by the end of the week."

Is it better to use active or passive voice with "instructed"?

While "you were instructed" (passive voice) is grammatically correct, using active voice can sometimes improve clarity and conciseness. Instead of "you were instructed to complete the task", you could say "the manager instructed you to complete the task."