order about

USAGE SUMMARY

"order about" is correct and usable in written English.
It is an idiom meaning to boss someone around, usually in a dictatorial way. Example: The boss was always ordering his employees about, trying to make them do what he wanted.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

His standing order: about 325 clams a day.

The New York Times

back down on that order about the left-wing material?

The New Yorker

Before the order, about 90 percent of all missions were conducted jointly.

The New York Times

There was a feeling of airiness and order about the pastel walls and clean linoleum floors.

The New York Times - Travel

Mr. Jagger's lawyer, JOHN VASSALLO, said he would appeal the order about the financial statement.

The New York Times

His order about the bank was never carried out, Mr. Giannoulias said.

The New York Times

Alec Baldwin once co-wrote an episode of "Law & Order" about a murdered gossip columnist.

The New Yorker

There's still an undeniable English order about it – grand whitewashed buildings with prim names.

The Guardian - Travel

And a word is in order about Senator DeConcini here, too.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

Emergency workers issued evacuation orders about 11 p.m., he said.

The New York Times

The book can be ordered for about $100 at phaidon.com.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "order about", ensure the context clearly indicates the domineering or authoritative nature of the command. It's often used to describe someone abusing their power.

Common error

Avoid using "order about" in neutral or positive contexts. This phrase often implies a negative exercise of authority or a disrespectful way of giving instructions. Consider alternatives like "direct" or "instruct" when a neutral tone is desired.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "order about" functions as a phrasal verb, where 'order' is the verb and 'about' is the particle. It describes the act of giving instructions or commands in a domineering or bossy manner. As Ludwig AI explains, it implies a negative and authoritative imposition of will.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Science

7%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "order about" is a phrasal verb used to describe the act of giving commands or instructions in a domineering or bossy way. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct. Its negative connotation makes it unsuitable for formal or positive contexts. As the Ludwig examples demonstrate, it's primarily used in News & Media, followed by Science and Formal & Business contexts. While "order about" is frequently used, consider alternatives like "direct" or "instruct" in neutral or formal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

boss around

This alternative directly conveys the act of giving orders in a domineering manner.

command around

Similar to 'boss around', this emphasizes authority and control in giving orders.

domineer over

This phrase suggests exercising control and authority, often oppressively.

dictate to

Indicates imposing one's will or decisions on others.

push around

This suggests exerting influence or control, often unfairly.

lay down the law

Indicates stating rules or demands forcefully.

call the shots

Implies having the power to make decisions and give orders.

be in charge of

Focuses on the responsibility and authority to manage or direct.

exercise authority over

Highlights the act of using one's power to direct or control.

manage

Suggests directing or controlling resources or people in order to achieve a goal.

FAQs

What does "order about" mean?

The phrase "order about" means to give commands or instructions to someone in a domineering or bossy way. It suggests a lack of respect or consideration for the person being ordered.

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

You can use "order about" to describe someone who is bossy or enjoys telling others what to do. For example: "The manager was always ordering his employees about, making unreasonable demands."

What are some alternatives to "order about"?

You can use alternatives like "boss around", "command around", or "domineer over" to convey a similar meaning of giving orders in a forceful or controlling way.

Is it appropriate to use "order about" in formal writing?

The phrase "order about" is generally considered informal and may not be suitable for formal writing. It's best to use more neutral alternatives like "direct" or "instruct" in professional or academic contexts.