What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
opcode
Example
The opcode for adding two numbers is 0010. [opcode: noun]
Example
The CPU reads the opcode and executes the corresponding instruction. [opcode: noun]
instruction
Example
The instruction 'print Hello World' displays the message on the screen. [instruction: noun]
Example
The programmer wrote an instruction to sort the data in ascending order. [instruction: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Instruction is more commonly used than opcode in everyday language. Instruction is a fundamental concept in computer programming and is used extensively in software development, while opcode is a more technical term that is used primarily in computer hardware.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between opcode and instruction?
Opcode is a more technical and formal term that is used primarily in computer hardware, while instruction is a more versatile term that can be used in both formal and informal contexts.