formal 10K+

Court order

UK //kɔːt ˈɔːdə// US //kɔrt ˈɔrdər// Pronunciation

Definition

A directive issued by a court requiring certain actions or prohibitions.

Listen to definition

In simple words: A legal command from a court that must be followed.

Examples

• The judge issued a **court order** to cease all construction immediately.
• He failed to comply with the **court order**, leading to further legal consequences.
• A **court order** can prohibit someone from contacting another individual.
• The **court order** required the return of the children to their guardians.
• She received a **court order** mandating her attendance at the hearing.

Usage notes

Used in legal contexts; appropriate when discussing legal documents or decisions. Avoid in casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

noun + noun

Memory hint

Think of a 'court' as a place where orders are given by judges.

Collocations

• issue a court order
• comply with a court order
• obey a court order
• violate a court order

Synonyms

• legal order
• judicial command
• court ruling
• court directive

Common mistakes

• Confused with 'court case', which refers to the legal proceeding itself.
• Using it in non-legal contexts, where 'order' isn't a legal command.