instruct
verb (used with object)
had instructed
-
past perfectof instruct.past perfect
Used to express a completed action that took place before another specific past action occurred.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
I was more stressed than usual before my meditation session, because the researchers had instructed me to avoid coffee and hair gel—directions I found problematic for both my reporting focus and my curly hair.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jun. 27, 2026
Even before Monday’s announcement, Chinese regulators had instructed several leading domestic AI companies not to accept U.S. funding without government approval, The Wall Street Journal previously reported.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jun. 1, 2026
He was speaking after President Donald Trump said he had instructed negotiators "not to rush into a deal", after earlier suggesting one was close.
From BBC ● May 25, 2026
Pirro indicated that she had instructed the Fed's inspector general, Michael Horowitz, to take over and conduct his own investigation, a standard procedure for an administrative, non-criminal inquiry.
From Barron's ● Apr. 26, 2026
I planted a kiss on her hand, just as Baba had instructed me to do the night before.
From "The Kite Runner" by Khaled Hosseini
