instruction
1instructions[plural]DT the written information that tells you how to do or use something [↪ directions]:
Install the machine according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Press enter and follow the on-screen instructions.
instructions for
Both products come with detailed instructions for use.
instructions on (how to do) something
Are there any instructions on how to plant the trees?
instruction book/manual/leaflet etc
Read the instruction book carefully.
! Do not say 'instructions how to do something' or 'instructions to do something'. Say instructions on how to do something.
2 [countable usually plural] a statement telling someone what they must do [↪ orders]
instructions to do something
He had specific instructions to check everyone's identity cards.
instructions that
Mrs Edwards gave instructions that she was not to be disturbed.
on somebody's instructions (=having been told by someone to do something)
On the landlord's instructions, the barmaid refused to serve him.
My instructions are (=I have been told) to give the package to him personally.
Make sure you carry out the doctor's instructions.
be under instruction to do something (=have been told to do something)
The police were under instruction to fire if necessary.
3 [uncountable] formal teaching that you are given in a particular skill or subject:
religious instruction
driving instruction
instruction in
The school gives instruction in First Aid.
under instruction (=being taught)
This group of trainees is still under instruction.
http://www.ldoceonline.com/dictionary/instruction
http://www.answers.com/instruction
direction:
countable] the way something or someone moves, faces, or is aimed:
Which direction did they go in?
in the direction of something
The suspects were last seen heading in the direction of Miami.
in somebody's direction
Tony glanced in her direction and their eyes met.
The girls pointed in the opposite direction.
On seeing me, Maurice changed direction and went along the wharf instead.
As shots rang out, the crowd ran screaming in all directions.
from the direction of something
There was a loud scream from the direction of the children's pool.
in a southerly/easterly etc direction
Continue in a southerly direction until you reach the road.
2directions[plural]
a) instructions about how to get from one place to another:
A very helpful woman gave me directions to the police station.
b) instructions about what to do
Be sure you read the directions before using any piece of equipment.
3way something develops[countable] the general way in which someone or something changes or develops:
We are happy with the direction the club is taking.
move/head/go in the right direction
I believe that things are heading in the right direction in South Africa.
new/different/exciting etc direction
The company is hoping to extend its operations in new directions.
4control[uncountable] control, management, or advice
under somebody's direction
Under Thompson's direction, the college has developed an international reputation.
5where from or where to[countable] where something comes from or where something leads
in a direction
The evidence all points in this direction.
from a direction
Help came from a wholly unexpected direction.
6purpose[uncountable] a general purpose or aim:
Her mother felt that Rachel's life lacked direction.
7film/play[uncountable]AMF the instructions given to the actors and other people working on a film, play etc
➔ a step in the right directionat step1 (2)
http://www.ldoceonline.com/dictionary/direction
http://www.answers.com/direction
Instruction is passive and indirect, while direction
is active and direct.