01
die Instruktion
instruction
A precise instruction or command that specifies how something should be done.
example
Bitte lesen Sie die Instruktionen auf der Verpackung sorgfältig durch.
Please read the instructions on the packaging carefully.
die Instruktion
instruction
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Word family
The noun 'die Instruktion' (the instruction) belongs to the word family of the verb 'instruieren' (to instruct). To instruct someone means to give them precise instructions.
EXAMPLE
Der Trainer instruierte die Mannschaft vor dem Spiel über die neue Taktik.
The coach instructed the team on the new tactics before the game.
Register
'Instruktion' (instruction) is a rather formal and technical word. In everyday language, simpler words are often used for an instruction.
EXAMPLE
Die Piloten erhielten die letzten Instruktionen vom Tower.
The pilots received the final instructions from the tower.
Typical verbs
In connection with instructions, 'Instruktion' (instruction) is often used with the verbs 'geben' (to give), 'erhalten' (to receive), or 'befolgen' (to follow).
EXAMPLE
Alle Mitarbeiter müssen die Sicherheitsinstruktionen genau befolgen.
All employees must follow the safety instructions exactly.
Context clue
You can recognize the technical meaning from the context. When computers, programs, or processors are being discussed, it means a single command.
EXAMPLE
Ein moderner Prozessor kann Milliarden von Instruktionen pro Sekunde ausführen.
A modern processor can execute billions of instructions per second.
Compare with
Instruktion vs Befehl
order / command
'der Befehl' and 'die Instruktion' can both mean an instruction. 'Befehl' emphasizes that someone or a system is supposed to carry something out; authority or a clear action is often the main focus. 'Instruktion' emphasizes more the precise explanation of how something should be done. That is why 'Instruktion' fits well with instructions, work steps, or also in computer science for a single program step. The words can be confused because an instruction can sometimes feel like an order. As a simple guide: 'Befehl' is more like 'Do this!', while 'Instruktion' is more like 'Do it this way.'
Instruktion
Für den Aufbau des Regals liest Anna zuerst die Instruktionen.
To assemble the shelf, Anna reads the instructions first.
Befehl
Der Computer führt den Befehl aus und speichert die Datei.
The computer executes the command and saves the file.
In real life
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