instruct
ihn-STRUHKT
Instruct (verb) means to teach someone a skill or subject. Example: “She instructs new pilots on emergency procedures.”
verb
1
To teach someone a skill or subject.
"She instructs new pilots on emergency procedures."
2
To formally tell someone what to do, often with authority behind it.
"The judge instructed the jury to disregard the comment."
"He instructed his assistant to cancel all meetings for the day."
How to use instruct
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo teach, or to give someone a formal order or directive.
Common pairings
instruct a jury
instruct staff
instructed to
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Word forms
- Plural
- instructs
- Third person singular
- instructs
- Past tense
- instructed
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
She _____ new pilots on emergency procedures.
Etymology
From Latin instructus, past participle of instruere, "to build, arrange, or equip."
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
What does “instruct” mean?
The word “instruct” means to teach someone a skill or subject. In plain terms, to teach, or to give someone a formal order or directive.
How do you pronounce “instruct”?
“Instruct” is pronounced ihn-STRUHKT (/ɪnˈstɹʌkt/ in IPA).
How do you use “instruct” in a sentence?
Here is “instruct” used in a sentence: “She instructs new pilots on emergency procedures.”
What part of speech is “instruct”?
“Instruct” is a verb.
Where does the word “instruct” come from?
The word “instruct” comes from Latin. From Latin instructus, past participle of instruere, "to build, arrange, or equip.".
Is “instruct” a common word?
“Instruct” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
How many meanings does “instruct” have?
“Instruct” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to teach someone a skill or subject.
