What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
instructional
Example
The instructional video provided step-by-step guidance on how to assemble the furniture. [instructional: adjective]
Example
The teacher used instructional materials such as textbooks and handouts to facilitate learning. [instructional: adjective]
didactic
Example
The novel was criticized for being too didactic, with the author's moral message overshadowing the plot. [didactic: adjective]
Example
The professor's lectures were often didactic, with a focus on imparting knowledge rather than facilitating discussion. [didactic: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Instructional is more common than didactic in everyday language, as it is a more versatile term that can be used in various contexts. Didactic is more commonly used in academic or literary contexts, where its specific connotations may be more appropriate.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between instructional and didactic?
Didactic is generally considered more formal than instructional, as it is often used in academic or literary contexts. However, both words can be used in formal or informal contexts depending on the situation.