in order

1. in order that . So that, to the end or purpose that, as in In order that Bob can meet my husband, we've come early . [Early 1700s]

2. See in short order .

3. in order to . For the purpose of, as a means to, as in We'll have to hire more help in order to finish on time . This usage always precedes a verb, such as finish in the example. [c. 1700]

4. In proper sequence or arrangement, as in The children lined up in order of size , or Are the letters all in order? [c. 1400]

5. Suitable, correct, appropriate, as in A few words on this subject are in order now . [Mid-1800s]

Example Sentences

Soon the fall-in order was given, and the older rookies fell in under arms.

From Project Gutenberg

I say having my late governor and my late mother in my eye—that Georgiana don't seem to be of the pitching-in order.'

From Project Gutenberg

There was a built-in order to return, after the lapse of a certain time period.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• accessible
• adaptable
• applicable
• convenient
• expendable
• functional
• practical
• profitable
• serviceable
• unused
• useful
• valid
• valuable