instruct
verb (used with object)
was instructing
-
past progressiveof instruct.past progressive
Used to describe an ongoing action or continuous state that was happening at a specific time in the past.
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.
In a statement later that evening, Bass said she was instructing city attorneys to explore legal options against Lineage.
From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 14, 2026
The president said he was instructing Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac to buy mortgage bonds earlier this year.
From Barron's ● Mar. 13, 2026
Prior to restarting direct examination, the judge told the court that Hoffinger was instructing Daniels to “stay focused” and “not provide any unnecessary narrative” in the afternoon’s testimony.
From Slate ● May 7, 2024
Alexei Lungu, Chance's leader and one of the candidates sidelined by the ban, said the party was instructing voters to back alternative independent candidates still permitted to run.
From Reuters ● Nov. 3, 2023
The lads he was instructing ranged in age from eight to twenty.
From "A Dance with Dragons" by George R. R. Martin
