ordered to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "ordered to" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when indicating that someone has been given a command or directive to perform a specific action. Example: "The soldiers were ordered to advance towards the enemy position."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Perhaps he was ordered to.

The New Yorker

He was ordered to commit suicide.

The New Yorker

(He was ordered to pay a fine).

The New York Times

Monasteries have been ordered to display them.

The Economist

Five more were then ordered to kneel.

The New York Times

He was also ordered to pay restitution.

The New York Times

Local people were ordered to stay indoors.

Independent

John was ordered to fire on it.

The New Yorker

Others have been ordered to cut production.

The Economist

You are ordered to disperse.

The New York Times

Stop when ordered to stop.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "ordered to", ensure the context clearly identifies who issued the order and who is expected to comply. This adds clarity and authority to your writing.

Common error

Avoid mismatching the subject and verb tense when using "ordered to". For example, instead of "He were ordered to go", use "He was ordered to go".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "ordered to" functions as a verb phrase indicating a command or instruction given to someone. As evidenced by Ludwig AI, this phrase is very common in different contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Wiki

23%

Science

11%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

3%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "ordered to" is a very common and grammatically correct verb phrase used to indicate that someone has been given a command or instruction. As Ludwig AI confirms, it appears frequently across various contexts, particularly in news, wiki articles, and scientific publications. While generally neutral, the formality can shift based on the source. When using "ordered to", it is helpful to mention who gave the order and the person who needs to fulfill the action to avoid confusion.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

under orders to

This alternative highlights that the action is being carried out because of specific instructions from a superior.

given the order to

This alternative emphasizes the reception of an order, focusing on the moment the command was issued.

commanded to

This alternative emphasizes the authority behind the instruction, suggesting a more formal and direct order.

instructed to

This alternative suggests guidance or training, implying a less forceful directive than "ordered to".

directed to

This alternative focuses on the act of pointing someone towards a specific action or goal.

compelled to

This alternative suggests that someone is forced or driven to do something, often against their will.

required to

This alternative indicates a formal obligation or necessity, often due to a rule or regulation.

obliged to

This alternative emphasizes a sense of duty or moral imperative to perform an action.

enjoined to

This alternative implies a formal or legal command.

tasked with

This alternative frames the action as a specific assignment or duty given to someone.

FAQs

How can I use "ordered to" in a sentence?

You can use "ordered to" to indicate that someone has been given a command or directive. For example: "The soldiers were ordered to retreat".

What are some alternatives to "ordered to"?

Alternatives include "commanded to", "instructed to", or "directed to", depending on the context.

Is "ordered to" formal or informal?

"Ordered to" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, although "commanded to" might be perceived as more formal.

Which is correct, "ordered to do" or "ordered doing"?

"Ordered to do" is the correct form. The infinitive form of the verb should follow "ordered to". For example: "They were ordered to complete the task" is correct.