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Instructions: meaning, definitions and examples

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instructions

[ษชnหˆstrสŒkสƒษ™nz ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

in giving directions

Detailed information telling how something should be done, operated, or assembled.

Synonyms

directions, guidelines, manual.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
instructions

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
directions

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
guidelines

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
manual

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

Examples of usage

  • He read the instructions before starting the assembly process.
  • The instructions were clear and easy to follow.
Context #2 | Noun

in a legal context

An official order or commission to do something.

Synonyms

commands, directives, orders.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
instructions

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

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

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

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.

Examples of usage

  • He received instructions from his boss to proceed with the project.
  • The judge gave strict instructions to the jury members.
Context #3 | Noun

in a teaching setting

Detailed information about how something should be done, given, or experienced.

Synonyms

direction, guidance, teaching.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
instructions

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.
guidance

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.
direction

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.
teaching

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.

Examples of usage

  • The teacher provided clear instructions for the science experiment.
  • Following instructions is an important skill for students.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Latin 'instructio', meaning 'to build up' or 'to arrange'.
  • It evolved in Middle English from 'instruccion', which was used to describe teaching and teaching materials.
  • The roots highlight the importance of structure in following guidance, akin to building blocks.

Education

  • Clear instructions can significantly enhance learning, as they help students grasp complex subjects by breaking them down.
  • In teaching, differentiated instructions account for the various learning styles and needs of students.
  • The rise of online learning has made clear instructional design crucial for student success and engagement.

Technology

  • Instructions are vital in programming; they serve as the guidelines for computers to perform tasks correctly.
  • Tech devices often come with user manuals filled with detailed instructions to ensure proper use and troubleshooting.
  • Interactive tutorials and step-by-step guides are now prevalent in software development to assist users in navigating complexity.

Psychology

  • Studies show that people are more likely to complete tasks when given clear and concise instructions.
  • Cognitive load theory emphasizes that overly complex instructions can overwhelm individuals, reducing task performance.
  • Instruction clarity can influence motivation, where more straightforward directions can lead to increased engagement.

Pop Culture

  • Films and TV shows often depict characters struggling with incorrect instructions, leading to humorous or dramatic situations.
  • DIY and craft communities have popularized video instructions, making it easier for people to create and build at home.
  • Video games frequently feature missions with detailed instructions that guide players through objectives and challenges.

Translations

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Word Frequency Rank

This word ranks #1,994, placing it within important intermediate vocabulary. Learning it will significantly improve your ability to express yourself in English.