Definition

1. Noun:
   • A statement or description that tells how something should be done, operated, or assembled: "Instruction" refers to detailed information or a command that provides guidance for an action or process.
   • The action or process of teaching; education: "Instruction" can also mean the profession or activity of providing knowledge or skill to someone.
   • (Computing) A single operation or command in a computer program: In computer science, an "instruction" is a basic command that a computer's processor can execute.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • Please read the assembly instruction carefully before building the furniture.
  • She received formal instruction in classical piano for ten years.
  • The CPU fetches and executes each machine instruction in sequence.

Advanced Usage

• "To be under instruction": to be in the process of being taught or trained by someone.
  • The new recruits are under the instruction of a seasoned sergeant.
• "To follow instructions": to do exactly as one is directed.
  • The success of the experiment depends on your ability to follow instructions precisely.

Variants and Related Words

• Instruct (verb): to teach or direct someone; to give an order or command.
  • The manual instructs users to unplug the device first.
• Instructive (adjective): providing useful information or knowledge.
  • The documentary was highly instructive about marine life.
• Instructor (noun): a person who teaches something; a teacher.
  • The ski instructor was very patient with the beginners.

Synonyms

• Direction: information or orders about what to do.
• Guidance: advice or information aimed at resolving a problem or difficulty.
• Tutelage: teaching or instruction, especially when given individually.

Related Phrases (Phrasal Verbs)

(Note: "Instruction" is a noun and does not form phrasal verbs. Related action is expressed by the verb "instruct.") - Instruct someone in something: to teach someone a particular subject or skill. - He instructed them in the basics of first aid.

Related Idioms

• "The devil is in the details": This idiom implies that small details in instructions or plans are often the source of problems.
  • The contract seems simple, but the devil is in the details, so read every instruction.

Noun

1. (computer science) a line of code written as part of a computer program
2. the profession of a teacher
   • he prepared for teaching while still in college
   • pedagogy is recognized as an important profession
3. the activities of educating or instructing; activities that impart knowledge or skill
   • he received no formal education
   • our instruction was carefully programmed
   • good classroom teaching is seldom rewarded
4. a message describing how something is to be done
   • he gave directions faster than she could follow them