the instruction vs the instructions

Both 'the instruction' and 'the instructions' are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'The instruction' is singular and refers to a single set of directions or guidance, while 'the instructions' is plural and refers to multiple sets of directions or guidance.

Last updated: March 30, 2024 • 1139 views

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English when referring to a single set of directions or guidance.

"the instruction"

Use 'the instruction' when referring to a single set of directions or guidance. It is singular and should be used with singular verbs and pronouns.

Examples:

The instruction on the package was clear and easy to follow.

Show examples from the web [+]

have completed a proficiency check in accordance with Appendix 9 to Part-FCL in an FSTD appropriate to the instruction intended
Reason codes for not settled instructions (if Status of the instruction is PEND or PENF)
This is the instruction concerning the protection of personal data in the activity of the Catholic Church in Poland.
The part of the instruction we are talking about is not based on the prevailing Personal Data Protection Act, but - and listen carefully - on the provisions of the Code of Canon Law.
Remaining part of securities to be settled (if Status of the instruction is PAIN)
The paying manager may, after the instruction from the accounting officer, execute duly authorised payments to third parties within the limits of the positive residual balance of the paying agent account at the bank.
The computer accidentally erased the instruction page.
Toby is the instruction card you throw away.
In any event, that is the instruction that was given.
I know everything about electronics because I practiced English reading the instruction manuals.
I'm just obeying the instruction.
We've collected the dead bodies according to the instruction.
All transactions are counted on the side of the participant sending the instruction.
Maybe if I back-fish the instruction set.
Waiter, show her the instruction book.
Thank you, gentlemen, for the instruction.
Here is the instruction on the 20.000 crowns.
It is the instruction of our parents and grandparents.
Found the instruction book in the drawer.
Navy confiscated the hotel for the instruction of officials... and I provided to them the entertainment.

Alternatives:

the guidance
the direction
the advice
the tip
the suggestion

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English when referring to multiple sets of directions or guidance.

"the instructions"

Use 'the instructions' when referring to multiple sets of directions or guidance. It is plural and should be used with plural verbs and pronouns.

Examples:

The instructions for assembling the furniture were included in the box.

Show examples from the web [+]

Please follow the instructions of your doctor.
Please follow the instructions of the security personal.
Comrade colonel, according to the instructions...
Please familiarize yourself with the instructions.
You got my messages and followed the instructions.
Follow the instructions that were given.
Please carefully follow the instructions of the veterinarian.
The Council may decide to modify the instructions as necessary.
Thanks for the instructions, Master Chief Crimins.
Leave the instructions and whatever medication he'll need.
It will contain a record of all the instructions this Borg has received.
Give the instructions to the night nurse.
They come up with all the instructions for everything in the universe.
Mr. de La Fayette will give the instructions.
According to the instructions printed on the packaging, boiling water has to be added before consumption.
Anyway, as far as I'm concerned, I followed the instructions.
They're just following the instructions that I gave them.
If I have deciphered the instructions... of the Greek translator correctly...
Sales literature describing the machinery must not contradict the instructions as regards health and safety aspects.
Please make sure to follow the instructions of the bug reporting wizard.

Alternatives:

the guidelines
the steps
the rules
the procedures
the protocols

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the instruction vs the instructions

"the instruction"

"the instructions"

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