civil order

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "civil order" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to the state of societal organization and lawfulness within a community or nation. Example: "The government is responsible for maintaining civil order to ensure the safety and well-being of its citizens."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Having evoked the full horror of the collapse of civil order in fourteenth-century Florence, Boccaccio conjures up an idyll of civilized society in the nearby countryside.

The New Yorker

A civil order resembling an ASBO.

The Guardian

This is a fight for civil order over impunity".

The New York Times

There has been a fearful breakdown of internal civil order in Serbia.

The New Yorker

Civil order has worn dangerously thin already in Dagestan, Chechnya's easterly neighbour.

The Economist

But he said the more immediate problem was to restore civil order.

The New York Times

And besides, being a novelist, Mr. Updike said, is "my contribution to the civil order".

The New York Times - Books

This would be enough to ensure civil order in the U.S. sector.

The Guardian - Opinion

Unlike many police units, which have local duties, Civil Order Police battalions can be deployed anywhere in the nation.

The New York Times

From that point on, he dedicated himself to restoring civil order to the empire by removing the army from politics.

Encyclopedia Britannica

There, where the control of the state is weakest, the vendetta is still a pervasive threat to civil order.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In academic or formal writing, use "civil order" to refer to the broader concept of societal structure and governance rather than simply public peace. The phrase is appropriate when discussing the framework and regulations that support societal harmony.

Common error

Avoid using "civil order" in casual conversation or informal writing. While grammatically correct, it can sound overly formal or even pretentious. Opt for simpler alternatives like "peace", "safety", or "control" in such settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "civil order" functions primarily as a noun phrase, representing a concept or state of societal organization characterized by adherence to laws and maintenance of peace. Ludwig's examples illustrate its use in discussions about societal stability and governmental responsibilities.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Encyclopedias

25%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "civil order" is a common and grammatically correct noun phrase that refers to the state of societal organization and lawfulness. Ludwig AI confirms its acceptability and frequent use across various reliable sources. While generally neutral to formal in register, it's essential to use it appropriately, avoiding overuse in informal settings. Related phrases like "public order" and "social order" can provide alternative ways to express similar concepts. Understanding the nuances of "civil order" helps ensure precise and effective communication in academic, professional, and public discourse.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

public order

Focuses more on the aspect of maintaining peace and preventing disturbances in public spaces.

social order

Emphasizes the broader structure and norms that govern social behavior within a society.

law and order

A common expression emphasizing the importance of both legal frameworks and the enforcement of those laws.

rule of law

Highlights the principle that all individuals and institutions are subject to and accountable to the law.

domestic tranquility

A more formal and often legalistic term referring to peace and order within a nation.

peace and security

Stresses the importance of both freedom from conflict and protection from threats.

societal stability

Highlights the aspect of maintaining a stable and functional society.

community safety

Focuses on the safety and well-being of individuals within a specific community.

governance

Addresses the structures and processes that ensure the proper function of society.

state control

Highlights the role of the state in maintaining civil order and security.

FAQs

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

"Civil order" refers to the maintenance of peace and adherence to laws in a society. For example, "The government's primary responsibility is to ensure "public order" and maintain "civil order".

What phrases can I use instead of "civil order"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "social order", "rule of law", or "law and order" as alternatives to "civil order".

Is "civil order" the same as "civic order"?

While similar, "civil order" refers to the general state of societal peace and lawfulness, whereas "civic order" is less common but relates more directly to the proper functioning and regulation of civic affairs and public services within a community. The term "civil order" is more common.

What is the relationship between "civil order" and "governance"?

"Civil order" is often a result of effective "governance". Good governance structures and processes ensure that laws are enforced and that society functions in a peaceful and orderly manner, contributing to the maintenance of "civil order".