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Meaning & use

give instructions

phrase·Everyday

Last updated

UK/ˌɡɪv ɪnˈstrʌkʃənz/
US/ˌɡɪv ɪnˈstrʌkʃənz/

Meanings

  1. phrasefixed phrase

    To tell someone what they should do, usually step by step.

    Grammar: Takes an indirect object: give someone instructions, or give instructions to someone.

    Patterns

    • give someone instructions
    • give instructions to someone
    • give instructions on how to do something
    • give someone instructions about something

    The manager gave us instructions before we started the job.

    She gave clear instructions on how to assemble the shelf.

    Please give the new staff instructions about locking up at night.

  2. phrasefixed phrase

    To tell a person or machine officially what to do in a particular situation.

    Grammar: Often used about computers, lawyers or officials telling others what action to take.

    Patterns

    • give instructions to someone
    • give someone instructions to do something

    The judge gave the jury instructions to consider all the evidence.

    The program gives the printer instructions to print on both sides.

Common combinations

give clear instructions
The teacher gave clear instructions so nobody was confused.
give detailed instructions
The manual gives detailed instructions for each repair.
give written instructions
They gave written instructions to everyone in the department.
give instructions on how to do something
He gave instructions on how to reset the password.
follow instructions
If you follow the instructions, the table is easy to build.

Synonyms and how they differ

direct
Stronger and more formal; it suggests telling people what to do with authority rather than explaining steps.
instruct
A single verb with the same meaning, often used in official or formal contexts.
brief
Used when someone gives the main points before a task, not a full step-by-step explanation.

Word family

instruction noun
A statement telling someone what to do.
instruct verb
To tell someone officially what they should do.
instructor noun
A person who teaches or shows others how to do something.
instructional adjective
Designed to teach or explain how to do something.

Commonly confused: give instructions or give orders?

give instructions vs give orders

'Give orders' sounds harsh and military; 'give instructions' is neutral and simply means explaining what to do.

Practice

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