in ‧ struc ‧ tion S3 W2 AC /ɪnˈstrʌkʃ ə n/ BrE AmE noun
[ Word Family: noun : ↑ instruction , ↑ instructor ; adjective : ↑ instructive , ↑ instructional ; verb : ↑ instruct ; adverb : instructively]
1 . instructions [plural] the written information that tells you how to do or use something ⇨ directions :
Press ‘Enter’ and follow the on-screen instructions.
instructions for
Both products come with instructions for use.
instructions on (how to do) something
Are there any instructions on how to plant the trees?
2 . [countable usually plural] a statement telling someone what they must do ⇨ orders
instructions to do something
He had specific instructions to check everyone’s identity cards.
instructions that
Mrs Edwards gave instructions that she was not to be disturbed.
on sb’s instructions (=having been told by someone to do something)
On the landlord’s instructions, the barmaid refused to serve him.
My instructions are (=I have been told) to give the package to him personally.
Make sure you carry out the doctor’s instructions.
be under instruction to do something (=to have been told to do something)
The police were under instruction to fire if necessary.
3 . [uncountable] formal teaching that you are given in a particular skill or subject:
religious instruction
driving instruction
instruction in
The school gives instruction in first aid.
under instruction (=being taught)
This group of trainees is still under instruction.
• • •
COLLOCATIONS
■ verbs
▪ follow the instructions (=do what the instructions tell you to do)
You should follow the instructions on the packet.
▪ read the instructions
Always read the instructions before switching on the machine.
▪ provide/supply instructions (=give someone instructions)
Detailed instructions are supplied with the software.
▪ come with instructions
The tent comes with instructions on how to put it up.
▪ the instructions say/tell you to do something
The instructions say that you should take the tablets after meals.
■ ADJECTIVES/NOUN + instructions
▪ clear
The instructions that I got with the phone weren't very clear.
▪ detailed
There are detailed instructions on the back of the box.
▪ written instructions
Each member of the team was issued with written instructions.
▪ full/comprehensive instructions (=very detailed)
There are comprehensive instructions for completing and filing the new tax form.
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Full instructions accompany the smoke alarm.
▪ step-by-step instructions (=giving details of each thing you should do in order)
This book gives step-by-step instructions for making curtains.
▪ the manufacturer’s instructions (=the instructions given by the company that made something)
Make up the mixture according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
▪ safety instructions
Written safety instructions should be supplied with all equipment.
▪ operating instructions
The operating instructions have been simplified so that they are easier to follow.
▪ cooking instructions
The cooking instructions can be found on the side of the packet.
■ instruction + NOUN
▪ an instruction book/manual
The instruction manual for the camera is over 150 pages long.
▪ an instruction booklet/leaflet/sheet
The washing machine comes with an instruction leaflet.
■ COMMON ERRORS
► Do not say ' instructions how to do something ' or 'instructions to do something '. Say instructions on how to do something .