A1 noun Neutral #2,551 most common

指示

shiji /ɕiʑi/

An instruction or direction given by someone to explain how to do something or where to go. It is frequently used in professional or educational settings to denote specific orders or guidelines provided by a superior.

Examples

3 of 5
1

先生の指示を聞いてください。

Please listen to the teacher's instructions.

2

部長からの指示をお待ちしております。

I am waiting for instructions from the department manager.

3

指示通りにやってね。

Do it exactly as instructed, okay?

Word Family

Noun
指示
Verb
指示する
Related
指示書
💡

Memory Tip

Look at the kanji: 指 (finger/point) + 示 (show). Imagine a finger pointing to show you what to do.

Quick Quiz

上司の___に従ってください。

Correct!

The correct answer is: 指示

Examples

1

先生の指示を聞いてください。

everyday

Please listen to the teacher's instructions.

2

部長からの指示をお待ちしております。

formal

I am waiting for instructions from the department manager.

3

指示通りにやってね。

informal

Do it exactly as instructed, okay?

4

実験の指示をよく読んでください。

academic

Please read the instructions for the experiment carefully.

5

上司から新しい指示がありました。

business

There were new instructions from the boss.

Word Family

Noun
指示
Verb
指示する
Related
指示書

Common Collocations

指示を出す to give instructions
指示に従う to follow instructions
指示を受ける to receive instructions
具体的な指示 specific instructions
指示を仰ぐ to seek instructions

Common Phrases

指示待ち人間

a person who lacks initiative (waits for instructions)

指示系統

chain of command

指示通り

as instructed

Often Confused With

指示 vs 指摘

Shiteki means pointing out a specific fact or mistake, whereas shiji means giving a direction for action.

📝

Usage Notes

It is most commonly used as a 'suru-verb' (指示する) in workplace environments. It implies a clear, authoritative direction rather than a mere suggestion.

⚠️

Common Mistakes

Learners sometimes use it when they mean 'advice' (助言). Shiji is much more direct and expects compliance.

💡

Memory Tip

Look at the kanji: 指 (finger/point) + 示 (show). Imagine a finger pointing to show you what to do.

📖

Word Origin

Derived from Middle Chinese, combining 'point' (指) and 'show/indicate' (示).

Grammar Patterns

Noun + をする (to give instructions) Noun + に従う (to obey/follow instructions)
🌍

Cultural Context

In Japanese business culture, following 'shiji' accurately is a core part of the 'Horenso' communication model.

Quick Quiz

上司の___に従ってください。

Correct!

The correct answer is: 指示

Related Phrases

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