Follow the directions vs Follow the instructions

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in slightly different contexts. 'Follow the directions' is commonly used when referring to physical directions, such as those on a map or in a manual. On the other hand, 'Follow the instructions' is more general and can refer to any set of guidelines or steps to be followed.

Last updated: March 22, 2024 • 898 views

Follow the directions

This phrase is correct and commonly used when referring to physical directions, such as those on a map or in a manual.

This phrase is used when instructing someone to adhere to specific physical directions, such as those for navigating a route or assembling something.

Examples:

Make sure to follow the directions on the back of the box.
I got lost because I didn't follow the directions on the map.
The teacher asked us to follow the directions for the experiment.

Show examples from the web [+]

To report a bug or make a suggestion regarding the Four-in-a-Row application or this manual, follow the directions in the GNOME Feedback Page.
To report a bug or make a suggestion regarding the Accerciser application or this manual, follow the directions in the GNOME Feedback Page.
To report a bug or make a suggestion regarding the Glade application or this manual, follow the directions in the GNOME Feedback Page.
To report a bug or make a suggestion regarding the Invest application or this manual, follow the directions in the GNOME Feedback Page.
To report a bug or make a suggestion regarding this application or this manual, follow the directions in this document.
To report a bug or make a suggestion regarding this application or this manual, follow the directions in this document.
To report a bug or make a suggestion regarding the Brasero application or this manual, follow the directions in the GNOME Feedback Page.
To report a bug or make a suggestion regarding the gedit application or this manual, follow the directions in the GNOME Feedback Page.
To report a bug or make a suggestion regarding the Cheese application or this manual, follow the directions in the Cheese project page.
To report a bug or make a suggestion regarding the Image Viewer application or this manual, follow the directions in the GNOME Feedback Page.
To report a bug or make a suggestion regarding the Disk Mounter or this manual, follow the directions in the GNOME Feedback Page.
Follow the directions of my officers and stay calm.
Follow the directions carefully when using the FORSTEO.
Follow the directions given by your doctor closely and use the instructions below as a guide:
You must follow the directions... with absolute calm.
You need to follow the directions exactly.
That you follow the directions in here and apply for a transfer to UCLA effective this January.
(Neeko) Sabina, all we have to do is follow the directions.
Before using the KwikPen, read the entire manual completely and follow the directions carefully.
Read and follow the directions provided in the package leaflet for the insulin.

Alternatives:

Follow the map
Follow the signs
Follow the route
Follow the manual
Follow the guidelines

Follow the instructions

This phrase is correct and more general, as it can refer to any set of guidelines or steps to be followed.

This phrase is used when instructing someone to adhere to specific guidelines, steps, or rules.

Examples:

Please follow the instructions carefully to complete the task.
The students were asked to follow the instructions for the assignment.
It's important to follow the instructions when using this equipment.

Show examples from the web [+]

Follow the instructions that come with the transfer set.
Follow the instructions in Step 4 to select the correct dose.
Follow the instructions that your doctor has given you.
Follow the instructions and recommendations from your doctor regarding the use of NovoRapid in a pump.
Follow the instructions that were given.
Follow the instructions that he was given.
Follow the instructions you hear in this broadcast.
Follow the instructions and recommendations from your doctor regarding the use of NovoRapid in a pump.
Important Notes Follow the instructions for sanitary injection technique recommended by your healthcare professional.
Follow the instructions for hygienic injection technique recommended by your healthcare professional.
Follow the instructions and recommendations from your doctor regarding the use of Velosulin in a du
Please follow the instructions of the security personal.
Please follow the instructions of your doctor.
Everyone only needed to follow the instructions.
Please read this booklet and follow the instructions.
Start the executable and follow the instructions for the installation procedure.
For further details on use, please follow the instructions provided with the Avostartclip.
Please follow the instructions provided with the Avostartclip.
Follow the Instructions for Use of the pen injector.
Please follow the instructions for use, as otherwise the Helicobacter Test INFAI may not work properly.

Alternatives:

Follow the guidelines
Follow the steps
Follow the rules
Follow the protocol
Follow the procedure

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Follow the directions vs Follow the instructions