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.
“Like a doctor the conservator needs to understand the case history of the building in order to make a correct diagnosis and to prescribe the correct medicine or therapy,” Mr. Warrack says.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 18, 2026
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
"The family are very interested to know what evidence was provided or what evidence wasn't provided by the prison service in order for the court to deem it not substantial," he said.
From BBC ● Sep. 17, 2026
In the replies, Rupar’s followers posted photos of disability devices that are worn around the hips in order to assist people with walking.
From Salon ● Sep. 16, 2026
It was possible that Rachel had taken advantage of the post in order to hurt me.
From "Bye Forever, I Guess" by Jodi Meadows
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.
