instructed

Instructed is the past tense and past participle of the verb instruct. It can mean to teach or train someone, to provide with information and directions, or to order or command someone to do something. As an adjective, instructed can describe someone who has received instruction or training, or something that has been prepared with specified guidelines.

Etymology: The word derives from Old French instruire, meaning to teach or inform, which in turn comes from Latin instruere, formed from in- “in” and struere “to pile up, arrange, build.” The sense of guiding or equipping people or objects is central to its usage.

Grammatical usage: Instructed is used as the simple past or past participle of instruct. It is a transitive verb and takes a direct object: “The trainer instructed the interns in safety procedures.” It can be followed by an infinitive: “She was instructed to complete the form.” The passive voice is common: “They were instructed by the supervisor.” In legal or formal contexts, to instruct can also mean to provide official directions or guidance, such as a court instructing jurors or a supervisor instructing an employee.

Usage notes: The phrase “as instructed” is frequently used to indicate compliance with given directions. The term often conveys a formal or authoritative tone, reflecting guidance, training, or commands rather than casual advice.

See also: instruct, instruction, instructor, instructional, instructions.