ENGLISH
REFERENCE

instructing

v.
B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˌɪnˈstɹəktɪŋ// UK //ɪnstɹˈʌktɪŋ// in·struct·ing

v. giving someone clear orders or teaching them how to do a specific task.

v. directing someone to perform a task or providing systematic information to develop a skill. Present participle of 'instruct'; functions as the head of a verb phrase or as a gerund.


SIMPLE

She is currently instructing the new staff on safety rules.

CONTEXTUAL

The judge is instructing the jury on how to evaluate the evidence before they begin their private discussion.

COMPLEX

By instructing the students in both classical theory and modern application, the professor ensures they possess a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter.

Synonyms
Usage

Transitive; requires a direct object, often followed by a prepositional phrase starting with 'in' or 'on', or a to-infinitive clause.

Pitfall

He is instructing to me the rules.He is instructing me in the rules.Instructing is transitive and takes the person as the direct object, not an indirect object with 'to'.

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