Instruction

ɪnˈstrʌkʃən

nounBeginner🔥Very CommonAction
2 meanings2 idioms/phrases3 questions

Definitions

2 meanings
1

A statement of what is to be done or how to do it; a direction or order.

ɪnˈstrʌkʃən

nounneutralBeginner
Action

A direction or order to do something.

The instruction manual was very helpful in setting up the new device.

💡 Simply: Instructions are like recipes for life! They tell you how to do something, like how to build a Lego set or how to bake cookies. Without instructions, things can get messy!

👶 For kids: Instructions are like rules that tell you how to do something. Like, "Put your shoes on first, then your socks!"

More Examples

2

Please read the instructions carefully before using the product.

3

The teacher gave clear instructions for the assignment.

How It's Used

General

"The instructions for assembling the furniture were confusing."

Military

"The soldiers followed the general's instructions precisely."

2

The act of teaching or imparting knowledge.

ɪnˈstrʌkʃən

nounneutralmedium
Education

The act of teaching or providing knowledge.

She has experience in instruction in several different subjects.

💡 Simply: Imagine your favorite teacher sharing their knowledge with you! Instruction is all about learning new things or getting better at something, just like when your coach teaches you how to score a goal.

👶 For kids: When someone teaches you something, that's instruction! Like when your parents teach you to ride a bike.

More Examples

2

Effective instruction is critical to student success.

3

The training program provided comprehensive instruction in all areas.

How It's Used

Education

"The school provided excellent instruction in mathematics."

Technical

"The instruction delivered by the specialist was highly effective."

Tip:Imagine an instructor teaching a class; that's instruction.

Idioms & expressions

under instruction

Following the guidance or orders of someone else.

"The lawyer acted under the instructions of their client."

follow instructions

To do something according to the directions given.

"Always follow instructions carefully when assembling furniture."

From Middle English, from Old French instruction, from Latin instructio ('a building, arrangement, teaching'), from instruere ('to arrange, build, inform').

The word 'instruction' has been used since the 14th century, initially to describe the act of teaching or informing.

Memory tip

Think of a construction worker needing directions to build something; he needs instructions!

Word Origin

LanguageLatin
Original meaning

"to arrange, build, or inform"

detailed instructionswritten instructionsverbal instructionsfollow instructionsprovide instruction

Common misspellings

instuctioninsturctioninstrucktion

Usage

40%Spoken
60%Written