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instruction manual

instruction manual

14 2.9
A small book that tells you how to set up and use a product
  • noun
  • /ɪnˈstrʌkʃən ˈmæn.ju.əl/
translation icon : manual de instrucciones
  • Before assembling the furniture, make sure to consult the instruction manual for proper guidance.

I really don't like instruction manuals.

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Examples

  • The unit had long been gathering dust without an instruction manual, so staff were unable to use it.

    Academic text (2006)
  • An uncle had given her an instruction manual to help her learn how to move her fingers on the piano keys.

    Fiction book (1994)
  • What page of the instruction manual is that on?

  • You have to read the instruction manual.

  • We're never given an instruction manual or a guide on the other side.

  • You already read the instruction manual we sent you... so you know all about all the important controls.

  • The order was given, and soon I was in possession of a detailed instruction manual.

    Fiction book (1993)
  • The machine's instruction manual was open on the counter.

    Fiction book (1999)
  • Lester sits at his desk studying an instruction manual for a juicer.

    Fiction book (1999)
  • The bookcase was crammed with instruction manuals, printer cables, extra ribbons, and boxes of diskettes.

    Fiction book (1990)

Synonyms

guide
vsinstruction manual
249 1.0

A book that gives simple instructions and basic information

is focused narrowly on detailed procedures for technical devices
manual
vsinstruction manual
208 2.8

A book that shows how to use or fix something

is specialised toward technical device installation and operation instructions
handbook
vsinstruction manual
56 3.1

A short book with useful information and instructions about a subject or place

is longer and more detailed for technical device operation
documentation
vsinstruction manual
  • Specialized
50 3.8

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

is specifically a detailed booklet for technical device installation and use
booklet
vsinstruction manual
40 1.9

A small book with information or instructions on a topic

is usually longer and more detailed for complex technical systems
guidebook
vsinstruction manual
33 2.1

A book that gives information and advice about a place or activity

is specialised for technical device installation and operation rather than general advice
instructions
vsinstruction manual
5 1.0

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

is more detailed and technical rather than general how-to guidance
instruction book
vsinstruction manual
3 2.2

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

focuses specifically on detailed use and installation of technical systems
book of instructions
vsinstruction manual
1 2.7

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

is the formal document focused on technical installation and operation
operating instructions
vsinstruction manual
1 3.3

A paper or file that tells you how to set up and use a device like a printer

is the same but emphasizes detailed technical device procedures
reference manual
vsinstruction manual
  • Specialized
1 3.7

A book or document that gives clear facts and instructions for quick checking

is designed for step-by-step technical setup and hands-on operation
software documentation
vsinstruction manual
  • Specialized
3.5

Written guides that explain how to use a computer program

is aimed at physical device installation and hands-on technical operation

How Detailed

instruction manual
14 2.9
booklet
40 1.9
guide
249 1.0

Surface Forms

Morphology

instructions + manual

The meaning of 'instruction manual' is directly compositional: it is a manual (booklet) that contains instructions. Both constituents denote the same semantic domain and the phrase maps onto equivalent constructions in many languages (e.g. Spanish 'manual de instrucciones'), so a B1 learner who knows the words would readily infer the meaning.

Etymology

Instruction manual comes from a simple idea: a small book of instructions you could hold, because the word manual comes from an old word for 'hand'. That's why an instruction manual is a booklet that shows 'how to use' something.