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operating instructions

operating instructions

1 3.3
A paper or file that tells you how to set up and use a device like a printer
  • noun
translation icon : instrucciones de operación
  • What problems can arise if the equipment is not turned on and operated according to prescribed operating instructions?

Examples

  • Before setting up the printer, make sure to read the operating instructions carefully.

  • If the diligent inventors in these kingdoms create an entirely new, useful concept that didn't exist before, such as a house, a cart, or a machine for tilling fields faster than a person can, then they can give the concept a class, which provides it with a name, a description, some state, and operating instructions.

    Blog text (19)
  • And yet none of us are issued operating instructions of how to move from driving automatic to driving stick shift.

  • For details, see Sony's operating instructions.

    Academic text (1995)
  • " But with my luck, she'd probably deflate before I figured out the operating instructions."

    Fiction book (1995)
  • Study the Sony operating instructions to learn more about all the interesting things this titling feature can enable you to do.

    Academic text (1995)
  • Basic operating instructions for the microcomputers were provided, and when all questions relating to these instructions were answered, specific task instructions were read.

    Academic text (1991)
  • After several visits, I've gotten to know the place so well that instead of reading the operating instructions while I wait, I marvel at the notice board, which never lacks for absurdities.

    Fiction book (2002)
  • It is supplied with all necessary cords, operating instructions, and a full one-year warranty for $229.

    Academic text (1995)
  • When using the new coffee machine, always refer to the operating instructions for best results.

Synonyms

documentation
vsoperating instructions
  • Specialized
50 3.8

Written information that explains how to use a machine or computer program

is aimed specifically at hands-on setup and use rather than official records
operating procedure
vsoperating instructions
15 3.4

A list of steps to use a machine or to deal with a specific situation safely

is a user-facing document for installation and everyday use rather than a protocol
instruction manual
vsoperating instructions
14 2.9

A small book that tells you how to set up and use a product

focuses on practical steps for general device installation and running
instructions
vsoperating instructions
5 1.0

A paper or online guide that tells you how to set up and use a device

is broader and more formal than short step lists
instruction book
vsoperating instructions
3 2.2

A book that tells you how to use or fix a device

is the usual user guide used for everyday device setup and use
book of instructions
vsoperating instructions
1 2.7

A small guide that shows how to set up and use a device

is a general user document rather than an item-specific leaflet
software documentation
vsoperating instructions
  • Specialized
3.5

Written guides that explain how to use a computer program

applies to physical devices and broader systems, not only digital programs

How Detailed

operating instructions
1 3.3
instructions
5 1.0
guide
249 1.0

Surface Forms

Morphology

operating + instructions

The phrase is directly compositional: 'operating' specifies the action domain and 'instructions' denotes guidance, so together they naturally mean guidance on how to operate a device. This noun phrase follows a common modifier+noun pattern found across languages and should be immediately understandable to a B1 learner who knows both constituents.

Etymology

The compound operating instructions comes from two simple words: operating (making a machine work) and instructions (step-by-step directions). Imagine a small booklet that shows each step to start, set up and use a device; that's why the phrase means a paper or booklet that tells you 'how to use' or 'set up' a machine.