in order

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

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

3. See in short order .

4. 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]

5. 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]

Example Sentences

As for the timing of subsidy discussions, could Johnson be unaware that ACA insurers need to know what the subsidies will be in 2026 in order to estimate their costs and therefore set their premiums?

From Los Angeles Times

All she had, she says, was a watch and a ring - which she sold in order to pay for a trip to Australia, where she sought refuge with a friend.

From BBC

The ninth inning, meanwhile, belonged to Sasaki, who retired the side in order with 100-mph fastballs and his trademark splitter, ending a night of theatrics by sending the Dodgers to the next round.

From Los Angeles Times

“Three moderate Democrats joined 52 Republicans last night,” he said, adding: “We need five more in order to reopen the government, and that’s really where we’re going to focus.”

From Los Angeles Times

Details of the new conditions refugees will have to meet in order to settle in the UK and be accompanied by family members will be set out later in the autumn.

From BBC

Related Words

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