instruct

word

Definition

To tell someone how to do something or what to do, often in a clear or formal way. It can also mean to teach or give official directions.

Usage & Nuances

'Instruct' is formal and often used for giving detailed directions, official orders, or teaching in a methodical way. Common phrases include 'instruct someone to do something' and 'instruct on how to...'. Less casual than 'tell' or 'teach'.

Spanish: instruir - dar instrucciones - enseñar Portuguese (BR): instruir - orientar - ensinar (formal)Portuguese (PT): instruir - orientar - ensinar (formal)Chinese (Simplified): 指示 - 指导 - 教导 Chinese (Traditional): 指示 - 指導 - 教導 Hindi: निर्देश देना - सिखाना (औपचारिक)Arabic: يُعَلِّم - يُوَجِّه - يوجّه (تعليمات رسمية)Bengali: নির্দেশ দেওয়া - শিখানো Russian: инструктировать - инструктировать - давать указания Japanese: 指示する - 教える Vietnamese: hướng dẫn - chỉ dẫn Korean: 지시하다 - 가르치다 Turkish: talimat vermek - öğretmek Urdu: ہدایت دینا - سکھانا Indonesian: menginstruksikan - mengajarkan

Example Sentences

The teacher instructed the students to open their books.

basic

He instructed me on how to use the new machine.

basic

Doctors instruct patients to take their medicine with food.

basic

My boss instructed me to finish the report by Friday.

natural

Could you instruct me on what to do next?

natural

He took a moment to instruct the team before the big game.

natural