a written order

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a written order" is grammatically correct and commonly used in written English.
It refers to a document or form that contains specific instructions or directives to be followed. Example: The judge issued a written order for the defendant to pay a fine for their violation.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

48 human-written examples

If he needs to issue a written order, General LaPorte signs it.

The New York Times

"So we will need to issue a written order to be sure everything is clear".

The New York Times

Judge Walton reminded lawyers in a written order that he "would not tolerate this case being tried in the media".

The New York Times

I said if you give me a written order I will do so, but not unless," said Ainsworth.

The Guardian

In a written order, he suggested that he would issue a deadline, possibly during Monday's hearing, if the strike continued.

The New York Times

Nurses and doctors disregarded the absence of a written order or signed consent form, which should have been red flags.

The New York Times - Health

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

9 human-written examples

Block was expected to issue a formal written order within a day.

Forbes

In a brief written order, the judge said he misinterpreted a previous filing by Sterling's attorneys to be their objections to his ruling, but they weren't.

Los Angeles Times

The task force also revised the pediatric department admissions form to include a standing written order for HIV testing as well as a section for documentation of test results.

Plosone

Judge Parker has yet to issue a new written order, so his reasoning is not clear.

The New York Times

All this was incorporated into a simple written order, known as the Blue Card, which was issued to every British soldier serving in Northern Ireland.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When precision is crucial, provide specific details regarding who issued the written order, to whom it was issued, and the context surrounding it to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid assuming the scope of a "written order" is universally understood. Clarify the boundaries and limitations of the order, especially when it has implications beyond its immediate context.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "a written order" is that of a noun phrase, typically serving as the object or subject of a verb. Ludwig shows that it denotes a formal directive or instruction, emphasizing its documented nature.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

10%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a written order" functions as a noun phrase denoting an official, documented directive. As demonstrated by Ludwig's examples, its communicative purpose is to convey authority and ensure clarity across various domains, from legal and military to administrative settings. The Ludwig AI identifies the phrase as grammatically correct and frequently employed, with a register that ranges from neutral to formal. When using this phrase, ensuring clarity regarding the source, scope, and context of the order is crucial to avoid ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

official directive

Replaces "written order" with a more formal term implying authority.

formal instruction

Focuses on the instructional aspect, using "formal" to emphasize its official nature.

official command

Highlights the commanding aspect, suitable when the order is authoritative.

formal decree

Implies a more significant and impactful written order, often from a high authority.

documented instruction

Stresses that the instruction is recorded in writing.

prescribed directive

Emphasizes that the directive is given as a standard procedure.

authorized instruction

Highlights that the instruction comes with the necessary authorization.

mandated procedure

Focuses on the process being required by an order.

stipulated guidance

Suggests that the guidance is clearly laid out and required.

established regulation

Indicates the order is part of a set of rules or laws.

FAQs

How to use "a written order" in a sentence?

You can use "a written order" to describe an official directive. For instance, "The commander issued "a written order" to retreat".

What can I say instead of "a written order"?

You can use alternatives like "official directive", "formal instruction", or "official command" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "a written order" or "an oral order"?

Both are correct, but they describe different types of orders. "A written order" is documented, while "an oral order" is given verbally.

What's the difference between "a written order" and "a written request"?

A "written order" conveys a command or instruction that must be followed. A "written request", on the other hand, is a formal way of asking for something but doesn't carry the same level of authority or obligation.