order

One way to use the word "order" is when asking for something or giving a command:

In these sentences, "order" is a verb:

• I’d like to order a burger and fries.
• Our office usually orders equipment from the Acme company.
• Isabel always orders the same thing when she goes out for lunch.
• The general ordered his troops to attack the other army.
• Let’s order some Chinese food to go.

In these sentences, "order" is a noun:

• I’d like to place an order, please.
• The order for supplies is late.
• The general gave an order. The troops must obey his order.
• Ordering food on the internet is easy to do. (In this sentence "ordering" is a gerund.)
• We’re still waiting for our order. (This could be food or anyting else that is requested from a business.)

The word "order" is also used when describing a sequence. What happens first, second, third, etc.

• The names on the list are in alphabetical order.
• The order of events during the accident was not easy to recall.
• Your call will be answered in the order it was received.

There are a few other ways to use this word:

• The vending machine is out of order. (It doesn’t work or there’s some other problem with it.)
• The judge told the defendant that he was out of order. (His bad behavior in court was noticed by the judge.)
• In order to solve this problem, the two sides will have to work together. (in order to = the way to; the best method to)
• Stop ordering me around! (This expresses frustration. Say this when someone constantly tells you what to do.)

Note: If you have trouble with "r" sounds, click here.

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This page was first published on October 3, 2012. It was updated on October 29, 2015.