instruction

[in-struhk-shuhn]

noun

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.

instruction

/ 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

instruction

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.

Other Word Forms

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of instruction¹

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

Example Sentences

"Terrible! You shouldn't need step-by-step instructions to navigate the site," one post read.

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But with these new funds, the instruction and rehearsal time will stay fully operational, and the previously laid-off staff will be reinstated for the remainder of the program.

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Check your vehicle’s manual and follow the instructions to turn off the “remote keyless feature.”

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In the other four plans, I encountered this instruction: “Contact the plan for provider information.”

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Under these changes, practices for students will be halved, moving from four days of instruction to two days of rehearsal.

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Related Words

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