I order that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I order that" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in formal contexts, such as legal documents or authoritative commands. Example: "I order that all employees submit their reports by the end of the week."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

I order that the dog be destroyed immediately".

The New York Times

I order that you have to have 300 miles of environmental clearances,' " said Michael Brady, a lawyer for residents who had sued to halt the project.

The New York Times

I'd like to say I'll think twice before I order that next MRI.

Huffington Post

'So if you say to the waiter, "Look, I'm a determinist … I'll just wait and see what I order", that refusal to exercise free will is only intelligible' if you take it as an exercise of free will (2001, p. 494).

British Journal of Social Psychology

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

I ordered that..

The Guardian

I think I ordered that album just to get Klosterman to stop bullying me.

The New York Times - Books

I ordered that our programs be reviewed by my national security team and our lawyers, and in some cases I ordered changes in how we did business.

The Guardian

"As of Friday last week, I ordered that a criminal investigation begin … the facts will take us wherever they take us," he said.

The Guardian

From the progressive tendency, I ordered that duck salad, which sounded like it came straight from the Ottolenghi cookbook, but disappointingly turned out to come straight from the fridge.

Independent

I wanted it to rain! Like, I ordered that!'" In a freewheeling 12-minute set, there were classics (1999, Let's Go Crazy) and covers (Creedence Clearwater Revival's Proud Mary, Dylan via Hendrix's All Along the Watchtower).

The Guardian - Music

Initially after the construction of the Grand Palace, King Rama I ordered that on this location a copy of the Phra Thinang Sanphet Maha Prasat should be built.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "I order that", ensure the context is appropriate for a direct and authoritative command. This phrase is most effective in situations where you have clear authority and the need for immediate compliance.

Common error

Avoid using "I order that" in casual or informal situations. Its formal tone can sound overly assertive or even arrogant, making it unsuitable for everyday conversation or less formal writing. Consider alternatives like "I request that" or "Please" for softer approaches.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I order that" functions as a performative utterance, where the act of saying the words constitutes the action itself. Ludwig examples show its use in contexts requiring immediate action or compliance. The phrase explicitly conveys a command from an authority figure.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Wiki

34%

Science

0%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "I order that" is a phrase used to issue a direct command or instruction, implying authority and expecting compliance. While grammatically correct, as noted by Ludwig AI, it should be used judiciously in formal settings to avoid sounding overly assertive in casual contexts. Consider using alternatives like "I request that" or "I direct that" to soften the tone when appropriate. The phrase is relatively rare, primarily appearing in news and media sources. Ensuring appropriate usage helps maintain clarity and respect in communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I direct that

A more straightforward and less emphatic way of giving an order.

It is my order that

Shifts the emphasis to the order itself, rather than the person giving it.

I require that

Highlights the necessity or obligation of the action being ordered.

I hereby command that

Emphasizes the formal and authoritative nature of the command using legal terminology.

My command is that

Emphasizes the power and authority behind the instruction.

I instruct that

Implies a more instructional or educational context for the order.

I decree that

Suggests a formal, often legal or official, pronouncement or command.

I demand that

Conveys a strong sense of urgency and insistence in the order.

I stipulate that

Used when setting out specific requirements or conditions, often in a legal or contractual context.

I mandate that

Similar to 'decree' but can also apply to regulations or rules.

FAQs

What does "I order that" mean?

The phrase "I order that" is a declarative statement indicating that the speaker is giving a direct command or instruction. It implies authority and expects compliance.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "I order that"?

Use "I order that" in contexts where you have clear authority and a need for direct compliance, such as in military, legal, or formal organizational settings. Avoid it in casual conversations.

What are some alternatives to "I order that"?

You can use alternatives like "I direct that", "I require that", or "I instruct that", depending on the specific context and the level of formality you wish to convey. Other alternatives are: "I hereby command that", "It is my order that".

How can I make my commands sound less harsh than "I order that"?

To soften a command, use phrases like "I request that", "Please ensure that", or "It would be helpful if". These options maintain politeness while still conveying your expectations.