instruction

noun

in·​struc·​tion in-ˈstrək-shən 

1

a

instructions plural : an outline or manual of technical procedure : directions

b

: a direction calling for compliance : order

—usually used in plural

had instructions not to admit strangers

c

: a code that tells a computer to perform a particular operation

d

: precept

prevailing cultural instructions

2

: the action, practice, or profession of teaching

instructional

in-ˈstrək-sh(ə-)nəl 

adjective

Synonyms

• behest
• charge
• command
• commandment
• decree
• dictate
• direction
• directive
• do
• edict
• imperative
• injunction
• order
• word

Examples of instruction in a Sentence

You should read each instruction carefully.

Their instruction was to deliver the package by five o'clock.

The after-school program offers reading instruction to students who need it.

The computer can handle one million instructions per second.

Recent Examples on the Web

Carefully read and follow all instructions to improve your odds of qualifying for the grant. —Melissa Houston, Forbes, 14 Dec. 2024

In the meantime, mail-in paper applications and instructions for using them are available at the state’s Department of Human Services website. —Wes Davis, The Verge, 14 Dec. 2024

Around the midpoint of the first season, Helen spots Dani (Agnes O'Casey), who is revealed to be a Black Doves operative monitoring Helen’s activities under the instruction of Mrs. Reed. —Declan Gallagher, EW.com, 13 Dec. 2024

The instructions will also offer guidance on how to use laundry sanitizer for sanitizing versus disinfecting, as well as instructions for use on certain types of viruses, such as COVID-19. —Jolie Kerr, Better Homes & Gardens, 12 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1b

Phrases Containing instruction

• programmed instruction
• self-instruction

Kids Definition

instruction

noun

in·​struc·​tion in-ˈstrək-shən 

1

a

: precept

instructions of ethical behavior

b

: command entry 2 sense 2, order

had instructions not to talk to strangers

c

plural : an outline or set of procedures to be followed : directions

instructions for assembling a rocking chair

d

: a code that tells a computer to perform a particular operation

2

: the action or practice of an instructor or teacher

instructional

-shnəl 

-shən-ᵊl

adjective

Legal Definition

instruction

noun

in·​struc·​tion

: an explanation of an applicable principle of law given by a judge to a jury before the jury retires to consider its verdict

called also jury charge, jury instruction

Note: Under both the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure and the Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure, at the close of evidence, or before the close if the court reasonably so directs, any party may file written requests for the instructions to be given to the jury by the court. The court must advise the parties of its decision regarding the instructions prior to closing argument so that the parties may address the instructions during argument. Any objections to the instructions must be made before the jury retires for deliberation.