order
noun (countable)
UK/ˈɔː.də/US/ˈɔːr.dɚ/
the arrangement or disposition of people or things according to a particular sequence or method; a state of proper or orderly arrangement; a request for goods or services; or an authoritative command or directive
Example Sentences
The books on the shelf are arranged in alphabetical order for easy reference.
She placed an online order for groceries to be delivered later that day.
The soldiers followed their commanding officer’s order without hesitation.
A tidy workplace helps maintain order and improves overall productivity.
He prefers a strict order in his daily schedule, starting with exercise at sunrise.
Historically, monarchs could issue an order to their subjects, and failure to comply often resulted in severe punishment, highlighting the absolute power some rulers once held.
When renovating the library, the staff meticulously sorted hundreds of volumes into perfect order, categorizing by genre, author, and publication date to help readers locate information quickly.
Her supervisor gave a direct order to finish the project by Friday, reflecting both the urgency of the task and the tight deadlines the entire team was facing.
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verb (transitive)
UK/ˈɔː.də/US/ˈɔːr.dɚ/
to request something to be supplied, made, or delivered; to command or direct someone to do something; or to arrange or set things in a proper sequence
Example Sentences
I’ll order a pizza for dinner tonight; what toppings would you like?
She decided to order new business cards, but first she had to finalize the updated company logo.
The manager can order staff to work overtime if there’s a tight deadline.
Please order these files by date so we can find last month’s records more quickly.
If you order something online, be sure to double-check the shipping address.
The teacher tried to order the unruly students to quiet down, yet it took several minutes before they fully cooperated and resumed their seats in an orderly fashion.
In an effort to boost sales, the store owner decided to order additional inventory of popular items, hoping to meet customer demand and avoid running out of stock before the weekend rush.
He had to order the laboratory equipment weeks in advance, anticipating the long delivery times and complex customs processes for importing specialized scientific instruments.
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Synonyms
Antonyms
How to Use
Request or arrange items, instructions, or sequences.The word 'order' can function as both a noun and a verb. As a verb, it means to request something to be made, supplied, or served, such as 'I would like to order a coffee.' It can also mean to arrange things in a systematic way, for example, 'Please order the books by title.' As a noun, 'order' refers to a request, as in 'She placed an order for a new laptop,' or to the arrangement or sequence of things, like 'The books are in alphabetical order.' Additionally, 'order' can signify authority or commands, such as 'The general gave the order to advance.' It is versatile in its usage, encompassing both the act of requesting and organizing, as well as denoting structure and authority in various contexts.
Alternatives
Alternative words for 'order' include 'request', 'command', 'arrange', 'organize', 'sequence', 'direct', 'instruction', and 'mandate'. When referring to requesting something, synonyms like 'request', 'ask for', or 'purchase' can be used, such as 'I would like to request a table for two.' For arranging or organizing, alternatives include 'arrange', 'sort', 'organize', 'systematize', or 'categorize', for example, 'Please arrange the files by date.' In the context of authority or commands, words like 'command', 'directive', 'instruction', or 'mandate' are suitable, such as 'The manager issued a directive to improve efficiency.' Depending on the specific meaning intended, selecting the appropriate synonym can enhance clarity and precision in communication.
Writing
When writing, 'order' is a versatile word that can convey both actions and structures. Use it to describe the process of requesting or arranging items to add clarity to your narrative. For instance, 'She decided to order a new computer for her home office.' Additionally, 'order' can help illustrate organization and systematic arrangement, such as 'The documents were in perfect order.' Incorporate 'order' to emphasize hierarchy or authority when needed, like 'The CEO gave the final order on the project.' Varying its use with synonyms can prevent repetition and enrich your writing. Ensure the context clearly defines whether 'order' refers to a request, arrangement, or command to maintain coherence and enhance the reader's understanding.
Casual Conversation
In everyday conversations, 'order' is often used when talking about requesting something or arranging things. For example, you might say, 'I need to order a pizza for dinner,' or 'Can you order the books on the shelf?' It’s also used when discussing sequences, like 'Let’s put these files in order.' Additionally, 'order' can come up when giving instructions or directives, such as 'I’ll give you an order to follow.' Using 'order' in casual talk helps in expressing requests, organizing tasks, or giving directions clearly and effectively, making interactions smoother and more straightforward.
Etymology
The word 'order' originates from the Old French 'ordre', which itself comes from the Latin 'ordo' meaning 'arrangement, line, rank, class'. Its roots trace back to the Proto-Indo-European '*er-', implying a row or series. Throughout history, 'order' has maintained its core meanings related to arrangement, command, and request. It has been used extensively in contexts ranging from military commands to the organization of society and natural sequences. An interesting fact is that 'order' is a foundational concept in many disciplines, including law, philosophy, and science, often representing structure and organization. Its versatility is evident in phrases like 'law and order', 'order in the universe', and 'place an order', showcasing its broad application in the English language.
