A1noun1K

Order

UK /["/ˈɔːdə(r)/"]/US /["/ˈɔːrdər/"]/

Definition

the way in which people or things are placed or arranged in relation to each other

In simple words: To ask for something to be brought to you or to arrange things in a specific way.

Examples

  • I would like to place an order for a pizza.
  • Please check the order before you serve it.
  • The teacher had to order the students to be quiet.
  • In our new project, we need to establish the order of tasks.
  • Can you write the books in alphabetical order?

Usage notes

Use 'order' when asking for food, items, or services. In formal contexts like business, it may refer to placing a purchase. Avoid using it in casual conversation about personal choices.

Grammar pattern

order + object

Memory hint

Think of a soldier in formation ordering troops — they stand in a specific order.

Collocations

  • correct
  • proper
  • right
  • change
  • in order
  • in order of
  • out of order
  • apple-pie
  • bring
  • create
  • impose
  • in order
  • in good order
  • civil
  • public
  • keep
  • maintain
  • preserve
  • in order
  • out of order
  • law and order
  • a point of order
  • side
  • short
  • last orders
  • take
  • give somebody
  • order for
  • bulk
  • large
  • record
  • place
  • put in
  • send
  • form
  • book
  • on order
  • to order
  • order for
  • bulk
  • large
  • record
  • place
  • put in
  • send
  • form
  • book
  • on order
  • to order
  • order for
  • direct
  • specific
  • strict
  • give
  • issue
  • make
  • by order of
  • on somebody’s orders
  • under orders from
  • doctor’s orders
  • get your marching orders
  • give somebody their marching orders
  • established
  • existing
  • old
  • monastic
  • religious
  • contemplative

Synonyms

  • valid
  • hierarchy

Antonyms

  • disorder
  • chaos

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'order' as a noun vs verb.
  • 'Ordered' is often mistakenly used instead of 'order' in commands.
  • Saying 'make an order' instead of 'place an order'.