in order
Idioms-
In proper sequence or arrangement, as in The children lined up in order of size , or Are the letters all in order? [c. 1400]
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Suitable, correct, appropriate, as in A few words on this subject are in order now . [Mid-1800s]
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See in short order .
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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]
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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
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
A representative said that the ranch is currently trying to double the size of its herd in order to accommodate the grill’s demands.
From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 17, 2026
Under Utah law, a plaintiff must notify government defendants of a claim of loss, in order for a lawsuit to be considered.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 16, 2026
It seems unlikely that the coiffed and polished Harp would freely choose to forgo a real suitcase in order to carry an oversized sack like a disorganized college kid.
From Salon ● Sep. 16, 2026
Aircraft manufacturers are increasingly ordering larger cabin windows, says Vermont, in order to offer passengers a wider view of the world outside.
From BBC ● Sep. 15, 2026
The giant robot pelican suit rocked backward, both Normans squawking simultaneously and having to take off in order not to fall.
From "Chronicles of a Lizard Nobody" by Patrick Ness
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
