verb

instructed

in-STRUK-tid

Instructed (verb) means past tense and past participle of instruct: told someone officially or firmly to do something. Example: “The pilot instructed passengers to remain seated.”

verb

Past tense and past participle of instruct: told someone officially or firmly to do something.

"The pilot instructed passengers to remain seated."

"We were instructed not to discuss the case with anyone."

Taught someone a subject or skill.

"She instructed new recruits in basic first aid for six years."

adjective

Having been given orders, information or training; often used with an adverb, as in well-instructed.

"A well-instructed jury rarely needs the point explained twice."

How to Use Instructed

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishWas told to do something, or was taught how to do it.

When to use it

Slightly formal; in casual speech people usually say told.

Memory tip

The pattern is instruct someone to do something, not instruct someone doing something.

Trace the full origin ↓

Easily confused with

instructed vs advised instructed vs informed

Common pairings

as instructed instructed to report instructed by the court clearly instructed

Study it as flashcards or scroll it in Flow — saved to your collection.

Test yourself on “instructed” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage →

Fill the Gap

Can you complete this real example?

The pilot _____ passengers to remain seated.

Etymology

Past tense of instruct, from Latin instruere 'to build, arrange, equip or teach', from in- 'in' plus struere 'to pile up, build'.

Origin: Latin

Synonyms

View more →

told directed ordered commanded briefed taught trained coached tutored

Related Words

led professional ordered directed trained headed consistent qualified

Rhymes for instructed

abducted constructed reconstructed

See all rhymes for instructed →

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between instructed and advised?

Instructed means you were told to do something and were expected to comply. Advised means you were given a recommendation you could reasonably decline. A manager instructs; a consultant advises.

Does 'as instructed' need to say who gave the instruction?

No. 'As instructed' is a standard shorthand meaning 'in the way I was told', and the source is usually clear from context. If it is not clear, name it: 'as instructed by the site manager'.

Is instructed used in law?

Yes, and with a special sense: in British legal usage a client instructs a solicitor or barrister, meaning they formally engage them and give them their brief.

People Also Searched

led professional ordered directed trained headed consistent qualified