Translation guide
The English verb 'instruct' covers giving orders, teaching, and providing official information. Japanese uses different expressions depending on the relationship, formality, and whether the focus is on commanding, teaching, or informing.
To tell someone to do something, often in a formal or authoritative context.
Formal verb meaning to command or order. Used in official or hierarchical situations.
上司が部下に残業を命じた。
The boss instructed the subordinate to work overtime.
Common verb for giving instructions or directions. Neutral formality, widely used in business and daily life.
先生が生徒に課題を指示した。
The teacher instructed the students on the assignment.
Stronger than 指示する, implies a direct order. Often used in military or strict hierarchical contexts.
将校が兵士に前進を命令した。
The officer instructed the soldiers to advance.
Casual verb for telling someone to do something, often used in family or informal settings. Can sound bossy.
母が子供にお使いを言いつけた。
The mother instructed the child to run an errand.
To impart knowledge or skills, often in an educational setting.
The most common verb for teaching or instructing. Used for both formal and informal contexts.
彼は高校で数学を教えている。
He instructs mathematics at a high school.
Implies coaching or guiding, often in sports, arts, or professional training. More formal than 教える.
コーチが選手にフォームを指導した。
The coach instructed the athlete on form.
Very formal, used for academic instruction or lecturing. Often seen in university contexts.
教授が大学院生に研究方法を教授した。
The professor instructed the graduate students on research methods.
To formally inform someone about a decision, procedure, or fact.
Standard verb for official notification. Used in legal, business, and administrative contexts.
会社が従業員に新しい規則を通知した。
The company instructed the employees about the new regulations.
Formal term for issuing a directive or circular, often from an authority to subordinates.
政府が各自治体に指針を通達した。
The government instructed each municipality on the guidelines.
General verb for conveying information. Less formal, can be used when 'instruct' means simply to tell or pass on a message.
受付が来客に会議室の場所を伝えた。
The receptionist instructed the visitor on the location of the meeting room.