out of sequence

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "out of sequence" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is not in the correct order or arrangement, often in contexts like data, events, or processes. Example: "The numbers in the report were out of sequence, making it difficult to analyze the data accurately."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

44 human-written examples

Modern (or archaic) music choices, quicker (or slower) cutting, iconic scenes and images scrambled out of sequence.

The New Yorker

Admirers of foreign-language novelists, though, face the complication that the works were often translated selectively or out of sequence.

The Guardian - Books

Then they may run separately, or out of sequence.

The New York Times

Tristram misplaces chapters, which then appear later, out of sequence.

The Guardian - Books

The story, told out of sequence, involves Evan, a.k.a.a

The New Yorker

Her stories should be read at random, out of sequence.

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

16 human-written examples

OOST = out-of-sequence thrust.

Earth, Planets and Space

This is called the "Out-Of-Sequence" Measurements (OOSM) problem.

Robotics and Autonomous Systems

There has been recent research on the processing of such out-of-sequence data.

Information Fusion

These networks are characterized by loss, delayed, or out-of-sequence delivery of packets.

EURASIP Journal on Image and Video Processing

The out-of-sequence packet problem occurs if DRO does not activate the double buffer mechanism.

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To maintain clarity, explicitly state what is "out of sequence". Instead of saying, "The data was out of sequence", specify, "The dates in the report were out of sequence".

Common error

Avoid using "out of sequence" when you simply mean "incorrect". "Out of sequence" specifically refers to a disruption in order, not general inaccuracy. For example, if a calculation is wrong, it's not "out of sequence"; it's simply incorrect.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "out of sequence" primarily functions as a prepositional phrase, often modifying a noun or verb to indicate that something is not in the correct or expected order. Ludwig shows examples in news, science, and general writing contexts where the phrase describes disruptions in order or arrangement.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

38%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "out of sequence" serves to denote a disruption in the expected or logical order of something. As affirmed by Ludwig, its grammatical status is correct, and it sees frequent application across varied fields like news, science, and general writing. Common alternatives include ""not in order"" and ""disordered"". Effective usage involves clearly specifying what is affected by the disruption. While versatile, it's essential to differentiate its meaning from general incorrectness. Use this knowledge to write clear and accurate prose.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

not in order

A straightforward alternative emphasizing the absence of proper arrangement.

unordered

A simple synonym indicating a lack of established order.

disarranged

Focuses on the disruption of a previously existing arrangement.

disordered

This term directly implies a lack of order or arrangement, similar to "out of sequence".

scrambled

Highlights the disarranged state of items, often used when order is disrupted.

unsequenced

A more technical term suggesting the absence of a defined sequence.

jumbled

Implies a chaotic mix-up of elements, similar to being "out of sequence".

non-chronological

Specifically refers to events or data presented in a way that deviates from the correct timeline.

muddled

Suggests a state of confusion and lack of clear order.

inverted order

Highlights that the original order has been flipped, rather than just being disordered.

FAQs

How can I use "out of sequence" in a sentence?

"Out of sequence" is typically used to describe elements that are not in their correct or expected order. For example, "The chapters in the book were printed "out of sequence"", or "The instructions were "not in order", making the assembly difficult".

What does it mean when something is described as "out of sequence"?

When something is described as "out of sequence", it means that the order or arrangement is disrupted. This term can apply to data, events, processes, or any set of elements where the order matters. For instance, a story told "non-chronological" could be considered "out of sequence".

Which is correct, "out of sequence" or "out of the sequence"?

"Out of sequence" is the correct and more common phrasing. "Out of the sequence" is less frequently used and can sound awkward. It is better to stick to ""out of sequence"" when describing something not in its proper order.

What are some alternatives to "out of sequence"?

Some alternatives to "out of sequence" include "not in order", "disordered", "jumbled", or "non-chronological", depending on the specific context. For example, "The files were "disarranged"" is also a viable option.