Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
open order
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "open order" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts related to business, logistics, or inventory management to refer to an order that has been placed but not yet fulfilled or completed. Example: "We currently have an open order for 100 units of the new product, which is expected to arrive next week."
✓ Grammatically correct
News & Media
Wiki
Science
Alternative expressions(2)
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
7 human-written examples
Only Tunisia truly cast off its old ways and embraced a new, more open order.
News & Media
From a tall building the rebel troops could be seen advancing in open order across the plains.
News & Media
In acknowledging "the preference on your [Frémont's] part that I should make an open order for the modification, which I very cheerfully do," the president "ordered that the said clause of said proclamation be modified, held, construed as to conform to and to not transcend the provisions on the same subject" addressed in the Confiscation Act of early August.
News & Media
The latter is order-driven, but supplemented by designated liquidity providers, and it features an open order book (Deutsche Börse 2004).
Science
Soon the cavalry were practising working dismounted and advancing in open order.
Wiki
At 08 45 a patrol sent out towards Oghratina saw 600 Ottoman soldiers marching towards Katia in open order in two long lines about 1.5 mile away, followed by more troops in a formed body, and cavalry advancing to the south west to surround Katia.
Wiki
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
52 human-written examples
Put your open orders in and be patient.
News & Media
Put your open orders in to buy Enerplus for $19 or better.
News & Media
If you already have some and are looking for a downside support level where you might steal more shares, put open orders in at C $17.
News & Media
As such, your Amazon.co.uk account has been closed and any open orders have been cancelled.
News & Media
At-the-Opening Order An order which specifies execution at the opening of the market or else it is canceled.
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When referring to a military formation, use "open order" to specifically denote a widely spaced arrangement for minimizing casualties. For business contexts, clarify the type of "open order" (e.g., purchase order, sales order) for precision.
Common error
Avoid using "open order" when you mean a "standing order" (recurring instruction) or a "closed order" (restricted command). Always ensure the context makes it clear whether you're referring to an incomplete transaction or a military formation.
Source & Trust
85%
Authority and reliability
4.4/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "open order" functions as a noun phrase that can act as a subject, object, or complement in a sentence. Ludwig's examples showcase its use in describing business transactions, military formations, and even legal modifications.
Frequent in
News & Media
33%
Wiki
33%
Science
17%
Less common in
Formal & Business
8%
Social Media
0%
Encyclopedias
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, "open order" is a versatile phrase with distinct meanings across different fields. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically sound and usable in written English. In business, it denotes an incomplete transaction, while in military contexts, it refers to a specific troop formation. While not extremely common, its usage is clear and well-established, particularly in news, media, and scientific domains. When writing, it's important to consider the context to avoid ambiguity and to ensure accurate communication. Be mindful of potential confusion with similar terms like "standing order" and always specify the type of "open order" for clarity.
More alternative expressions(10)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
outstanding order
Focuses on the unfulfilled aspect of the order.
pending order
Emphasizes that the order is waiting to be processed.
unfilled order
Highlights that the order has not yet been completed.
incomplete order
Suggests the order is missing some items or steps.
unexecuted order
Implies that the order has not been carried out.
standing order
Refers to a recurring or continuous order.
advance in dispersed formation
Specifically refers to military tactics and is a more technical term.
new initiative
Broader term for a new directive or command.
unclosed transaction
Refers to financial transactions that are still in progress.
active mandate
Describes an ongoing instruction or command that is in effect.
FAQs
What does "open order" mean in a business context?
In business, an "open order" typically refers to a purchase or sales order that has been placed but not yet fully processed or fulfilled. It signifies that some action is still required to complete the transaction.
How does "open order" differ from "standing order"?
An "open order" indicates an incomplete transaction, whereas a "standing order" is a recurring instruction or arrangement. For example, a monthly subscription is a standing order.
What is the meaning of "open order" in military terms?
In military strategy, "open order" describes a formation where soldiers are widely spaced apart to minimize the impact of enemy fire. This contrasts with close-order drill, where soldiers are closely packed.
What are some synonyms for "open order" in a business setting?
Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "pending order", "outstanding order", or "unfilled order" as alternatives to "open order".
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
85%
Authority and reliability
4.4/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested