instruction

American  

[in-struhk-shuhn] / ɪnˈstrʌk ʃən /

noun

instructions plural

1. the act or practice of instructing or teaching; education.

   Synonyms:

   schooling, indoctrination, exercise, drill, training

2. knowledge or information imparted.

3. an item of such knowledge or information.

4. Usually instructions. orders or directions.

   The instructions are on the back of the box.

5. the act of furnishing with authoritative directions.

   Synonyms:

   mandate, command

6. Computers. a command given to a computer to carry out a particular operation.

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instruction British  

/ ɪnˈstrʌkʃən /

noun

1. a direction; order

2. the process or act of imparting knowledge; teaching; education

3. computing a part of a program consisting of a coded command to the computer to perform a specified function

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instruction Scientific  

/ ĭn-strŭk′shən /

1. A sequence of bits that tells a computer's central processing unit to perform a particular operation. An instruction can also contain data to be used in the operation.

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Other Word Forms

Derived Forms

• misinstruction
  noun
• overinstruction
  noun
• preinstruction
  noun
• reinstruction
  noun
• self-instruction
  noun
• instructional
  adjective
• noninstructional
  adjective
• noninstructionally
  adverb

Inflected Forms

Nouns

• instructions
  plural

Etymology

Origin of instruction

First recorded in 1375–1425; late Middle English instruccio(u)n, from Latin instructiōn-, stem of instructiō; equivalent to instruct + -ion

Explanation

Instruction is vital for education, as it is the transfer of learning from one person to another. Any time you are given directions or told how to do something you are receiving instruction. The noun instruction is related to the word structure; both share the Latin root structus, "built." The use of the word as we know it today appeared in the early 15th century from the Old French. Today it refers to the action of teaching and the job of a teacher. It can also be used to denote the directions themselves. Consider the word's connection with structure: effective instruction is presented in an orderly, structured manner.

Example Sentences

“It is necessary not to inform the party that will undertake the transfer on your behalf of our identity,” the instruction said.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jul. 4, 2026

The ordinance that restricts yoga instruction at city parks does not outlaw teaching other subjects including tai chi and Shakespeare, the city has conceded in court proceedings.

From Los Angeles Times • Jul. 2, 2026

Mississippi, which began emphasizing phonics-based literacy instruction over a decade ago, has since made major academic strides, for example.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jul. 1, 2026

Fadel leads workshops in Mindful Archery that combine meditation, somatic practices such as breathwork, immersive nature therapy and archery instruction.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 30, 2026

We may be sure, however, that this exportation is transacted not simply for the emoluments of sale, but for the instruction of awful example.

From "The Astonishing Life of Octavian Nothing, Traitor to the Nation, Volume II: The Kingdom on the Waves" by M.T. Anderson

Related Words

• direction
• discipline
• guidance
• information
• lesson
• preparation
• schooling
• teaching
• training