in order

The phrase 'in order' is versatile and used in various contexts to indicate arrangement, appropriateness, or purpose.

🇺🇸 US Voice:

🇬🇧 UK Voice:

Definition

B1General

(common)Arranged or organized in a proper or systematic manner.

Example

Make sure the files are in order before the meeting.
The books on the shelf are in order by author.

B2General

(common)Suitable or appropriate for a particular situation or purpose.

Example

An apology is in order after that mistake.
Given the circumstances, a celebration is in order.

C1Procedural

(formal)In accordance with rules, regulations, or procedures.

Example

The chairman declared the motion in order.
Her actions were not in order according to the meeting guidelines.

B2Purpose

(common, conjunction)Used to express the purpose of an action.

Example

We need to leave early in order to catch the train.
He studied hard in order to pass the exam.

Similar

Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "in order":

running order ordered set in line in sort on the order of ordered ring in a row in series one after another in turn social order in one order up in form order of business back order job order in reverse first order of the day open order in place