Definition

Noun 1. Detailed information telling how something should be done, operated, or assembled: A set of directions, orders, or steps provided to guide action or ensure correct procedure. 2. (Law/Computing) A direction or command given to a computer or a person in authority: In computing, a single operation command for a processor. In law, directions given by a judge to a jury.

Usage and Examples

• Noun (General Use):

  • Please read the instructions carefully before assembling the furniture.
  • The teacher gave clear instructions for the homework assignment.
  • I followed the cooking instructions on the package.

• Noun (Technical/Legal Use):

  • The computer program executes one instruction per clock cycle.
  • The jury listened to the judge's final instructions before deliberating.

Advanced Usage

• "To be under instructions to do something": To have been formally ordered or directed to do something.
  • The ambassador is under instructions not to comment on the ongoing negotiations.
• "Firm instructions": Very clear, strict, or non-negotiable directions.
  • We have firm instructions from management to reduce costs this quarter.

Variants and Related Words

• Instruct (verb): To direct or command someone; to teach someone a subject or skill.
  • She instructed the team to begin the project.
• Instructional (adjective): Designed or intended to teach.
  • The video is an instructional guide for new employees.
• Instructor (noun): A person who teaches something; a teacher.
  • The ski instructor was very patient.

Synonyms

• Directions: Step-by-step guidance on how to do something or reach a place.
• Guidelines: General rules, principles, or advice.
• Orders: Authoritative commands that must be obeyed.
• Commands: Direct orders, especially in a military or computing context.
• Manual: A book of instructions, especially for operating a machine.

Related Phrases

• Instruction manual/booklet: A printed document containing detailed operating instructions.
  • If you lose the instruction manual, you can download a PDF from the website.
• Step-by-step instructions: Directions that detail every single action in sequence.
  • The recipe provides step-by-step instructions for baking the cake.

Idioms

• "The instructions are on the box": A phrase meaning the necessary information is readily available and easy to find.
  • A: "How do I set this up?" B: "It's simple; the instructions are on the box."

Noun

1. a manual usually accompanying a technical device and explaining how to install or operate it