How to say "instructions" in Japanese
Choosing the right word
- 指令しれいnoun, suru verb, transitive verbCovers 'instructions' in the sense of orders or directives handed down by an authority, such as a headquarters; seldom the everyday word for instructions on how to do something.
- 指図さしずnoun, suru verb, transitive verbInstructions or directions given directly to a person, telling them what to do; often carries a nuance of someone directing or bossing others, so it is about being ordered rather than guided.
- 訓令くんれいnoun, suru verb, transitive verbAn official directive or set of instructions issued within an organization, especially bureaucratic or military ones; for ordinary 'instructions' it is marginal — this is really a formal directive, not everyday guidance.
- 仕様書しようしょnounWritten instructions in document form: a manual, specification, or guide for a product, program, or procedure; use this for 'instructions' you read, not for spoken directions from a person.
- 指示しじnoun, suru verb, transitive verbThe general word for instructions or directions given by someone in charge, as in following a superior's instructions; for the everyday sense of 'instructions' this is the word to reach for.
Use 指示 for everyday instructions or directions from someone; 指図 for orders telling a person what to do; 指令 and 訓令 for authoritative directives within organizations; and 仕様書 for written instructions such as manuals or specifications.
Usage comparisons are AI-assisted and cross-checked by multiple models; for study reference only
Japanese equivalents
See also
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