ordering someone to do something

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "ordering someone to do something" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where one person is instructing or commanding another to perform a specific action. Example: "The manager is ordering the team to submit their reports by the end of the day."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

Wiki

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

The first steps towards such a theory are established by Pfänder in his reflections on the act of ordering someone to do something and the logic of imperatives (1909), as well as by Daubert in his tentative theory of questions of 1911/12 (cf. Schuhmann/Smith 1987).

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Tell someone to do something if you're popular.

WikiHow

University of Ottawa national security law professor Craig Forcese, in a blog post on the legality of foreign fighters, explained that while a counter-IS militia may have a "generally more palatable" goal, he writes, "but it is still running around killing people in order to get someone to do something, and so it could well be engaged in a 'terrorist activity.'.

Vice

This shouldn't be your first stop, but using fear and outrage in order to convince someone to do something is a very effective technique.

WikiHow

It means asking someone to do something that he will never be able to do.

The New Yorker

People are still waiting for someone to do something.

The New York Times

Venezuelan football really needed someone to do something similar.

BBC

Only then is the meaning reached: a person who makes it easier for someone to do something.

Psicologia: Reflexão e Crítica

Don't "not allow" someone to do something.

WikiHow

So, if you want someone to do something nice for you, why not do something nice for them first?

WikiHow

If you do not have a radio, simply wait for someone to do something stupid.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "ordering someone to do something", be mindful of the power dynamics at play and consider whether a more collaborative or persuasive approach might be more effective.

Common error

Avoid exclusively using phrases like "ordering someone to do something" in situations where fostering cooperation and teamwork is desired. Vary your language to include requests, suggestions, and collaborative problem-solving.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "ordering someone to do something" functions as a verbal phrase indicating a command or instruction given by one party to another. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in contexts where instruction or command is needed.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Wiki

25%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

15%

Encyclopedias

5%

Social Media

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "ordering someone to do something" is grammatically correct and commonly used, as affirmed by Ludwig. It's essential to consider the context and the potential implications of using such a direct command. While the phrase is acceptable, it is best to be mindful of the power dynamics at play and consider alternatives to foster collaboration. Understanding appropriate usage can prevent unintended authoritarian tones and encourage more effective communication. Related phrases, like "commanding someone to act" or "requesting someone to undertake", offer nuances that can be better suited to various situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Giving someone an order to execute

Explicitly states that the instruction is an official command.

Commanding someone to act

Focuses on the authority and directness of the instruction.

Directing someone to perform

Emphasizes the guiding aspect of the instruction, implying a level of control.

Instructing someone to execute

Highlights the specific nature of the task and the expectation of completion.

Telling someone to proceed

Simple and direct, focusing on initiating the action.

Requesting someone to undertake

Shifts the tone to a more polite and less forceful approach.

Asking someone to carry out

Similar to 'requesting', but emphasizes the practical aspect of the task.

Tasking someone with performing

Highlights the assignment of responsibility for the action.

Assigning someone to complete

Focuses on delegation and the expectation of task fulfillment.

Pressuring someone into doing something

Highlights that the request may involve unwanted persuasion.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "ordering someone to do something" to sound less authoritarian?

Consider using alternatives like "requesting someone to do something", "asking someone to do something", or "instructing someone to do something" depending on the context and the level of formality required.

What's the difference between "ordering someone to do something" and "asking someone to do something"?

"Ordering someone to do something" implies authority and a hierarchical relationship, whereas "asking someone to do something" suggests a more polite and optional request. The former expects compliance, while the latter allows for refusal.

In what situations is it appropriate to use the phrase "ordering someone to do something"?

The phrase is appropriate in contexts where there is a clear authority or hierarchical structure, such as in the military, in emergency situations, or when giving direct instructions in a professional setting. However, be mindful of the tone and potential impact on relationships.

Are there any legal implications when "ordering someone to do something"?

Yes, depending on the context. For example, in a workplace, an employer can legally "order someone to do something" as long as it falls within the scope of their job description and does not violate any labor laws. Illegally "ordering someone to do something" in other contexts could be considered coercion or duress.