Instructions: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when detailing specific steps to accomplish a task. Can refer to written or spoken directives.

• Please read the instructions carefully before assembling the furniture
• The teacher gave clear instructions for the homework

Used when explaining how to get to a location or how to operate something. Often related to spatial or procedural movement.

• Can you give me directions to the nearest gas station? Follow the directions on the map to reach your destination

Used for general advice or principles that provide direction on how to do something. Often more flexible than instructions.

• The company has strict guidelines for employee conduct
• Here are some guidelines for creating effective presentations

A comprehensive document containing detailed information about how to use or operate something, often provided with products or software.

• Refer to the user manual for troubleshooting tips
• The manual has all the information you need to set up the device

Instructions are usually detailed steps given to explain how to do something. Often used in manuals, guides or any instructional material.

• The manual provides clear instructions on how to assemble the furniture.
• Follow the instructions carefully to complete the experiment.

Orders are authoritative instructions to do something, usually issued by someone in a position of authority. This term can have a strict or commanding tone.

• The manager gave orders to complete the project by Friday.
• The captain shouted orders to his crew on the deck.

Commands are authoritative orders given by someone in a position of power. Often used in military, computing or situations where immediate compliance is expected.

• The general issued commands to the troops.
• Type 'exit' to close the program.

Directives are formal or official instructions, often coming from an authoritative body or organization. Commonly used in legal, corporate, or government contexts.

• The company issued new directives to ensure workplace safety.
• The government released a directive on environmental regulations.

When providing detailed steps to accomplish a specific task or assemble something, particularly in written form.

• Please follow the instructions in the manual to set up your new device.
• The instructions for the exam were very clear.

When offering advice or recommendations to help someone make decisions or solve problems, especially in a mentoring or advising context.

• He sought guidance from his mentor on how to advance his career.
• The teacher provided guidance to the students struggling with the project.

When giving general determinations of a course or path to follow, either literal or metaphorical.

• She asked for directions to the nearest supermarket.
• The new manager provided a clear direction for the team's strategy.

When referring to the act or profession of educating or imparting knowledge, typically in a classroom or instructional setting.

• Her teaching methods have been very effective in engaging students.
• Teaching can be a very rewarding career.