instruction

noun

in·​struc·​tion in-ˈstrək-shən 

1

a

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

instructional

in-ˈstrək-sh(ə-)nəl 

adjective

Synonyms of instruction

• edict
• direction
• order
• directive
• do
• injunction
• command
• commandment

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

Several states in the South have shot upward on the list — a surge widely attributed to a focus on the science of reading, a body of research associated with literacy instruction focused on small letter sounds. —Jemma Stephenson, San Diego Union-Tribune, 18 May 2026

Add noodles and cook according to package instructions. —Ryan Brennan may 18, Charlotte Observer, 18 May 2026

Follow evacuation instructions without delay. —Kansas City Star Weather Bot, Kansas City Star, 18 May 2026

Rather than try to force his son to follow his passion, Amrik Singh started reading books about golf, and father and son would dial up Tiger Woods tapes on the old VHS as a way of instruction. —Dana O’Neil, CNN Money, 18 May 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1b

Phrases Containing instruction

• programmed instruction
• self-instruction

Rhymes for instruction

• abduction
• adduction
• conduction
• construction
• deduction
• destruction
• eduction
• induction
• obstruction
• production
• reduction
• seduction

Kids Definition

instruction

noun

in·​struc·​tion in-ˈstrək-shən 

1

a

: precept

instructions of ethical behavior

b

: command entry 2 sense 2, order

had instructions not to talk to strangers

c

plural : an outline or set of procedures to be followed : directions

instructions for assembling a rocking chair

d

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

2

: the action or practice of an instructor or teacher

instructional

-shnəl 

-shən-ᵊl

adjective

Legal Definition

instruction

noun

in·​struc·​tion

: 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.