a general order

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a general order" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where you are referring to a directive or command that applies broadly or universally within a certain context, such as military or organizational settings. Example: "The commander issued a general order to all troops regarding the new safety protocols."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

34 human-written examples

There is a general order eulogizing the troops though it is whispered they did not do so well.

The New York Times

The rebel command on the field is all but annihilated; there was, Sears tell us, no one left even to issue a general order of retreat.

The New York Times - Books

Seeking to rein in his subordinate, Scott issued a general order in early September establishing a protocol for junior officers communicating with senior officers.

The New York Times

But the front doors of the Olympic Center Arena in Lake Placid, N.Y., were locked yesterday because of a general order from Gov. George E. Pataki, and visitors were not allowed inside.

The New York Times - Sports

Houston never had an official edict from its City Council or mayor, but the police followed a general order against asking about the citizenship of people who hadn't been arrested (they did run immigration checks after arrests).

The New York Times

"Believe me, I work hard to earn a dollar," he told Bergquist as the two men pondered one of the more elaborate of the exhibits — a general order relating to the surrender of Cornwallis, signed by George Washington.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

25 human-written examples

Reversed situation of that described in "A Bell For Adano, in which a general orders a peasant's mule shot because is blocking the roadway.

The New Yorker

By Bruce Bliven and Berton Roueché The New Yorker, November 4, 1944 P. 15 Reversed situation of that described in "A Bell For Adano, in which a general orders a peasant's mule shot because is blocking the roadway.

The New Yorker

From less directional, early encounter conformations a general ordering transition with increased backbone hydrogen bond interactions was observed.

Plosone

For spectral methods [8, 9], explicit formulae for the expansion coefficients of a general-order derivative of an infinitely differentiable function in terms of those of the original expansion coefficients of the function itself are needed.

Boundary Value Problems

Each new capital, he said, was a "single place of order in a country where a more general order was impossible".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a general order", ensure the context clearly indicates who is issuing the order and to whom it applies for maximum clarity.

Common error

Avoid assuming that "a general order" is universally known or understood. Always provide sufficient context or explanation to prevent confusion about its specific requirements or implications.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a general order" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It identifies a specific type of directive, command, or regulation that applies broadly within a particular context, as demonstrated by Ludwig's examples from various sources.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

28%

Wiki

22%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

8%

Formal & Business

6%

Reference

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a general order" is a noun phrase denoting a broad directive or command applicable to a group. Ludwig AI affirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across diverse fields such as news, science, encyclopedias, and wiki sources. While neutral in register, clarity regarding the issuer and recipients is key. Alternatives like "standing order" or "blanket instruction" offer nuanced semantic variations. Remember to contextualize this phrase to avoid misunderstandings about its scope.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

A standing order

Emphasizes the continuous and pre-existing nature of the directive.

A blanket instruction

Highlights the wide-ranging application of the instruction.

A universal directive

Focuses on the comprehensive reach and applicability of the directive.

A broad command

Stresses the scope and extent of the command.

An overarching regulation

Highlights the superior and controlling nature of the regulation.

A widespread mandate

Emphasizes the authorization and permission aspect of the order.

A company-wide policy

Specifies the policy's application to an entire company.

A global decree

Indicates a formal and authoritative pronouncement with worldwide effect.

An all-inclusive edict

Highlights that the edict comprises everything or everyone affected.

A sweeping provision

Emphasizes the extensive impact and coverage of the provision.

FAQs

How can I use "a general order" in a sentence?

You can use "a general order" to describe a directive issued to a large group, such as: "The commanding officer issued "a general order" regarding curfew hours."

What are some alternatives to "a general order"?

Alternatives include "standing order", "blanket instruction", or "universal directive", each emphasizing different aspects of a broad command.

What's the difference between "a general order" and "a specific command"?

"A general order" applies broadly to a group, while "a specific command" targets a particular individual or situation. For example, "a general order" might set rules for all soldiers, whereas a specific command directs one soldier's actions.

Is "a general order" the same as "a company-wide policy"?

While similar, "a general order" typically implies a hierarchical command structure, often in military or paramilitary contexts. "A company-wide policy" is usually used in business settings to describe regulations applicable to all employees such as "a company-wide policy" on remote work.