instruct
UK: ɪnˈstrʌkt | US: ɪnˈstrʌkt
vt. to teach or educate someone systematically
vt. to give authoritative directions or orders
vt. (law) to inform or advise formally
The word "instruct" originates from Latin instruere ("to build, arrange, teach"), combining in- (into) and struere (to build). The metaphorical shift from physical construction to mental "building" (teaching) reflects the idea of imparting knowledge as a structured process. By the 15th century, it acquired legal meanings ("to direct formally") alongside educational ones.
The professor will instruct the class on advanced calculus.
The manual instructs users to unplug the device before maintenance.
The judge instructed the jury to disregard the witness's last statement.
Parents often instruct children in basic life skills.
The software includes a tutorial to instruct new employees.