instrucciones
/eens-trook-SYOH-ness/
instructions
Visualizing instrucciones as the steps needed for assembling or operating something.
instrucciones(noun)
instructions
?steps for assembling or operating something
directions
?guidance on how to perform a task
,manual
?the physical booklet containing the steps
📝 In Action
¿Dónde están las instrucciones para armar esta silla?
A1Where are the instructions for assembling this chair?
Perdí las instrucciones del juego.
A2I lost the game's instructions.
Sigue las instrucciones al pie de la letra.
B1Follow the instructions to the letter (exactly).
💡 Grammar Points
Always Plural
This word is almost always used in its plural form in Spanish, just like the English word 'instructions,' even when referring to a single set of directions.
❌ Common Pitfalls
Using the Singular
Mistake: "Dame la instrucción, por favor."
Correction: Dame las instrucciones, por favor. ('Instrucción' exists, but usually means 'teaching' or 'education,' not 'directions.')
⭐ Usage Tips
Verb Partner
The most common verb to use with 'instrucciones' is 'seguir' (to follow). For example: 'Debes seguir estas instrucciones'.
Visualizing instrucciones in the sense of orders or mandates given by an authority figure.
instrucciones(noun)
orders
?mandates or commands from an authority
directives
?formal guidance
,briefing
?a set of specific commands given before a task
📝 In Action
El abogado recibió instrucciones del juez.
B1The lawyer received orders from the judge.
Estamos esperando las instrucciones del cuartel general.
B2We are waiting for the directives from headquarters.
⭐ Usage Tips
Formal Context
When used in this sense, 'instrucciones' implies a hierarchical relationship, where someone with authority is giving guidance to someone beneath them.
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: instrucciones
Question 1 of 2
Which verb is most commonly used when you want to say you are doing what the guide tells you?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is 'instrucciones' a feminine noun?
The word comes from the feminine singular noun 'la instrucción.' All plural nouns formed from feminine singular nouns keep the feminine gender, so we always use the feminine articles and adjectives with it (e.g., 'las instrucciones,' 'instrucciones claras').
¿Se puede usar la palabra 'direcciones' en lugar de 'instrucciones'?
Yes, 'direcciones' is a good synonym. However, be careful! 'Direcciones' also means 'addresses' (like a house address) or 'geographic directions' (North, South, etc.). 'Instrucciones' is clearer when talking about a manual or a set of steps.