B2verbformaleducationwork
US/ɪnˈstrʌkt/
UK/ɪnˈstrʌkt/
to tell someone officially what to do, or to teach someone a skill
In context
The teacher instructed the students to leave their phones in their bags.
Our guide instructed us on how to use the safety equipment.
She was instructed to wait outside until the manager was ready.
Words that go with instruct
verb + preposition
- instruct someone to doThe doctor instructed him to rest for a week.
- instruct onExperts instruct new staff on safety rules.
- instruct inHe instructs young pilots in basic flying.
- be instructedStaff were instructed to stay calm.
verb + noun
- instruct a lawyerShe instructed a lawyer to handle the case.
- instruct staffThe manager instructed staff to close the shop early.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
The manager instructed to me to wait.Correct: The manager instructed me to wait.