under an order

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "under an order" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where someone is acting or being required to act according to a specific directive or command. Example: "The shipment was delayed because it was still under an order from the regulatory agency."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

The case had been under an order of silence.

The New York Times

All the participants in the case have been banned from speaking publicly under an order signed by Judge Ruckriegle.

The New York Times

Prosecutors and defense lawyers are under an order, supported by both sides, that prohibits them from commenting on the case.

The New York Times

On Friday, Mr. Chalabi's organization was evicted from one of his main working residences under an order from Dr. Allawi.

The New York Times

In December he was permitted to return to his home, albeit under an order of house arrest.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Most were ordered deported in February, but are eligible for release under an order of supervision until deportations resume.

The New York Times

But under an order from President Clinton, the government tonight stopped jamming the signal for civilians who use it to help steer cars, fly planes and find hikers.

The New York Times

Other government officials have said that the agency's eavesdropping without warrants began only after Sept. 11, 2001, under an order from President Bush.

The New York Times

This says: Under an order put down in parliament, it will be an offence to belong to the groups, encourage support for them or wear clothes suggesting support.

The Guardian - Opinion

Lawyers directly involved in both sides of the case are under an order not to discuss it, and could not comment.

The New York Times

The plaintiff, the estate of Ann Malin, the owner of the gas station property, paid $500,000 to clean up the spill under an order from the state.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "under an order", specify the source or type of order (e.g., court order, presidential order) to provide clarity and context.

Common error

Avoid constructing sentences where the actor carrying out the order is unclear. For instance, instead of "Actions were taken under an order", specify who took the actions: "The agency took actions under an order from the court."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "under an order" functions as a prepositional phrase, typically modifying a verb or noun to indicate the authority or condition under which an action is performed or a state exists. Ludwig shows this usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Encyclopedias

10%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Wiki

2%

Academia

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "under an order" is a common prepositional phrase used to indicate that something is done or exists because of a specific directive or command. Ludwig AI confirms that it's grammatically correct and widely used, particularly in news and media, as well as encyclopedias and scientific contexts. While the phrase itself is straightforward, being precise about the type and source of the order enhances clarity. Alternatives such as "pursuant to a directive" or "in compliance with an injunction" offer similar meanings but with varying degrees of formality. The key is to ensure the sentence structure clearly identifies who is acting "under an order" to avoid passive voice constructions. Overall, it's a versatile phrase useful in conveying compliance and obligation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

pursuant to a directive

Replaces "under an order" with a more formal term indicating action taken following an official instruction.

in compliance with an injunction

Specifies the 'order' as a legal injunction, highlighting adherence to a court-mandated action.

subject to a mandate

Emphasizes the compulsory nature of the 'order' as a requirement or authoritative command.

bound by a decree

Implies a legally binding or formally issued command that one is obligated to follow.

in accordance with a regulation

Specifies the 'order' as a regulatory requirement, emphasizing adherence to established rules.

as per an instruction

Replaces 'order' with 'instruction', indicating action taken according to a set of guidelines.

following a command

Highlights the act of obeying a specific instruction or order.

by virtue of an edict

Replaces 'order' with a more formal term, 'edict', indicating action taken due to an official proclamation.

under the authority of a ruling

Emphasizes that the action is being carried out because of a formal decision or judgment.

pursuant to a stipulation

Indicates that the action is taken because of an explicit agreement or condition.

FAQs

How can I use "under an order" in a sentence?

You can use "under an order" to indicate that an action is being taken because of a directive or command. For example, "The documents were released "under an order" from the judge".

What's a synonym for "under an order"?

Alternatives to "under an order" include phrases like "pursuant to a directive", "in compliance with an injunction", or "subject to a mandate", each with slightly different connotations.

Is it better to say "pursuant to an order" or "under an order"?

Both "under an order" and "pursuant to an order" are correct, but "pursuant to an order" is often considered more formal and legalistic. The choice depends on the context and desired tone.

What does it mean to be "under an order of supervision"?

Being "under an order of supervision" typically means that someone has been released from detention but is still required to report regularly to authorities and comply with certain conditions. For example, an immigrant might be "under an order of supervision" while awaiting deportation proceedings.