instruction

noun

in·struc·tion | \ in-ˈstrək-shən

Definition of instruction

1a instructions plural : an outline or manual of technical procedure : directions

b : a direction calling for compliance : order —usually used in plural had instructions not to admit strangers

c : a code that tells a computer to perform a particular operation

d : precept prevailing cultural instructions

2 : the action, practice, or profession of teaching

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Examples of instruction in a Sentence

You should read each instruction carefully. Their instruction was to deliver the package by five o'clock. The after-school program offers reading instruction to students who need it. The computer can handle one million instructions per second.

Recent Examples on the Web

Some get some classroom instruction, especially those in a union or nonunion apprenticeship. — Roy Berendsohn, Popular Mechanics, "How to Become a Skilled Tradesperson," 13 Mar. 2019 Although Jamie gives his brother strict instructions, to probably no one's surprise, the ever-so-difficult Danny doesn't listen. — Jennifer Aldrich, Country Living, "'Blue Bloods' Hints at Fight That Could Tear Brothers Danny and Jamie Reagan Apart," 1 Feb. 2019 Roberts, who showed the Herald the written instructions for the rendezvous, never picked up the girl because Roberts met a man on the trip who would become her husband. — Julie K. Brown, The Seattle Times, "Perversion of Justice: Even from jail, sex abuser manipulated the system. His victims were kept in the dark," 4 Dec. 2018 John Drake, district director of curriculum and instruction, took on Lee-Sung’s regular duties, enabling Lee-Sung to visit schools, meet with educators and parents and provide the school board with regular safety updates. — Priscella Vega, latimes.com, "Report details Newport-Mesa’s steps to ramp up school safety," 28 June 2018 My instruction was not to come back with anything that didn’t look handmade. — David Netto, Town & Country, "From "Coffin Storage" to Seaside Retreat: Inside an Incredible Home in Amagansett," 19 Mar. 2019 In the meantime, look to regulars who catch on to the instructions quickly. — Emily Abbate, SELF, "8 Things to Know Before You Take Pilates Classes," 2 Jan. 2019 Pick up the correct kind of mortar and mix it according to the manufacturer’s instructions. — Kevin Dupzyk, Popular Mechanics, "So You Want To Fix Your Chimney," 21 Dec. 2018 Read the signs at every water park attraction and listen to all audio instructions provided by recordings or staff. — PEOPLE.com, "Headed to a Water Park This Summer? Here's What You Need to Know to Stay Safe," 28 June 2018

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'instruction.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

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Dictionary Entries near instruction

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Last Updated

14 Apr 2019

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Time Traveler for instruction

The first known use of instruction was in the 15th century

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More Definitions for instruction

instruction

noun

English Language Learners Definition of instruction

: a statement that describes how to do something

: an order or command

: the action or process of teaching : the act of instructing someone

See the full definition for instruction in the English Language Learners Dictionary

instruction

noun

in·struc·tion | \ in-ˈstrək-shən

Kids Definition of instruction

1 instructions plural : a specific rule or command I left instructions that I was not to be disturbed.

2 instructions plural : an outline of how something is to be done Follow the instructions on the box.

3 : the act or practice of teaching Students receive instruction in history.

instruction

noun

in·struc·tion

Legal Definition of instruction

: an explanation of an applicable principle of law given by a judge to a jury before the jury retires to consider its verdict

— called also jury charge, jury instruction

Note: Under both the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure and the Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure, at the close of evidence, or before the close if the court reasonably so directs, any party may file written requests for the instructions to be given to the jury by the court. The court must advise the parties of its decision regarding the instructions prior to closing argument so that the parties may address the instructions during argument. Any objections to the instructions must be made before the jury retires for deliberation.