orders were given

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "orders were given" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where instructions or commands have been issued, often in formal or military settings. Example: "After the meeting, orders were given to proceed with the project immediately."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

"Orders were given," the author said.

The New York Times

Orders were given: Do not open those little round doors.

The New York Times - Travel

He also said in a statement announcing the investigation that "no illegal orders were given".

The New York Times

The Emperor let it go unanswered, and orders were given for war.

The New Yorker

In her house, orders were given for the mirrors to be robed in dust-sheets.

The New York Times - Books

Before the new orders were given late tonight, Palestinian officials expressed skepticism about Mr. Sharon's intentions.

The New York Times

Orders were given that shops and bars were to resume their normal hours.

The New Yorker

"Orders were given to blow main ballast and close the hatches," the entry reads.

The New York Times

In 1939, orders were given from Moscow to abandon the struggle.

The Economist

On January 4, orders were given to prefects throughout Italy to control all "suspect" political organizations.

Encyclopedia Britannica

As it was swung off orders were given to row away.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "orders were given", ensure the context clearly identifies who issued the orders and to whom they were directed. This adds clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid overuse of the passive voice, as it can make your writing sound vague. Instead of "orders were given", consider using the active voice: "The general gave the orders" which is more direct and engaging.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "orders were given" functions as a passive construction, indicating that instructions or commands were issued by an unspecified entity. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. It highlights the action of giving orders rather than who gave them.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Wiki

24%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Science

7%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "orders were given" is a frequently used passive construction that indicates instructions or commands were issued. As Ludwig confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts, ranging from news reports to formal directives. While it's important to be mindful of overuse and consider using the active voice for more directness, the phrase remains a common and acceptable way to communicate the issuance of directives. Its prevalence across news, encyclopedias, and scientific sources underscores its versatility and widespread understanding.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

directives were issued

Replaces "orders" with "directives" and "given" with "issued", emphasizing the formal nature of the instructions.

commands were issued

Substitutes "orders" with "commands", highlighting the authoritative aspect of the instructions.

instructions were imparted

Replaces "orders" with "instructions" and "given" with "imparted", giving a more formal and educational tone.

instructions were provided

Uses "instructions" instead of "orders" and "provided" instead of "given", which is slightly less formal.

the word went out

An idiomatic alternative suggesting that information or a directive was circulated.

the decree was made

Indicates a formal and authoritative decision or instruction was established.

the mandate was issued

Implies a formal and often legal authorization or instruction was communicated.

arrangements were made

Focuses on the preparation and planning aspect rather than the direct command.

the call was put out

Suggests a general request or instruction was broadcast to a wider audience.

guidance was provided

Offers a softer, more supportive tone, implying advice rather than a strict command.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "orders were given" to sound more formal?

Consider using phrases like "directives were issued" or "commands were promulgated" for a more formal tone. The choice depends on the specific context and the level of formality required.

Is it better to use active or passive voice when writing about who gave the orders?

While "orders were given" is grammatically correct, using the active voice (e.g., "The commander gave the orders") often creates a clearer and more direct sentence. The active voice emphasizes who performed the action.

What are some alternatives to "orders were given" in a military context?

In a military context, you might use phrases such as "commands were issued", "instructions were relayed", or "the word came down". These alternatives maintain the authoritative tone suitable for military settings.

When is it appropriate to use "orders were given" instead of "instructions were given"?

"Orders were given" typically implies a higher level of authority and a more formal command structure, such as in military or hierarchical organizations. "Instructions were given", on the other hand, can be used in broader contexts where the direction is less authoritarian.