What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
informative
Example
The documentary was very informative about the history of the city. [informative: adjective]
Example
The article provided informative insights into the latest scientific research. [informative: adjective]
instructive
Example
The cooking class was very instructive, and I learned how to make a delicious meal. [instructive: adjective]
Example
The book provided instructive step-by-step instructions on how to build a birdhouse. [instructive: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Informative is more commonly used than instructive in everyday language. Informative is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while instructive is more specific and implies a target audience that wants to learn or improve.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between informative and instructive?
Both informative and instructive can be used in formal and informal contexts. However, instructive may be perceived as more formal due to its implication of teaching or guidance.
