under explicit orders

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "under explicit orders" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when indicating that someone is acting based on clear and direct instructions from a higher authority. Example: "The soldier was under explicit orders to secure the perimeter and report any suspicious activity immediately."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Standing idle under explicit orders from Beresford, he had nevertheless been considering advancing against the French left flank, but he was wary of moving his infantry across open country in the face of 3,500 French cavalry.

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

In a conversation with Cephas Msipa, one of the few remaining Zapu ministers of what had been a government of national unity, Sekeramayi reportedly said that "not only was Mugabe fully aware of what was going on" but the Fifth Brigade was operating "under Mugabe's explicit orders".

The Guardian

There were also no explicit orders from Allon to Cohen.

The New Yorker

But officers were given explicit orders to use restraint, especially with live bullets.

The New York Times

These bombers were capable of carrying atomic bombs, but on Truman's explicit order they did not carry nuclear warheads.

The New York Times

This suggests that there is an explicit order between the categories.

BMC Medical Research Methodology

It entails critically considering in an iterative and systematic way the interactions between health system elements at macro, meso and micro levels [ 21], in order to simulate desirable health system behaviours under explicit assumptions and conditions [ 43].

BMC Health Services Research

Note that such repetition effects are not under explicit conscious control.

Plosone

Kolmogorov developed a method to derive probability density functions for arbitrary explicit first-order vector differential equations under white noise excitation using a partial differential equation of a multivariate conditional probability distribution.

Journal of Sound and Vibration

Hayden said the most controversial parts of the CIA's counterterrorism program -- waterboarding and secret detentions, both of which have reportedly been halted -- were carried out at the time by CIA officers acting under orders, with explicit assurances by top Bush administration lawyers that their actions were legal.

The Washington Post

They should make their values and beliefs explicit in order to share them with their followers.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "under explicit orders", ensure the context clearly indicates a hierarchical structure where someone is bound to follow instructions. This clarifies accountability and authority.

Common error

Avoid using "under explicit orders" when the source of the direction is unclear or informal. This phrase implies a formal chain of command, so misapplication can undermine the intended meaning.

Linguistic Context

Prepositional phrases like "under explicit orders" often function as adverbial modifiers, indicating the conditions or reasons behind an action. As Ludwig AI indicates, this phrase describes actions carried out due to specific instructions. Examples show it defining circumstances in military and political contexts.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

33%

Wiki

17%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "under explicit orders" is a prepositional phrase used to indicate that someone is acting based on clear, direct instructions from a higher authority. As shown by Ludwig AI, this phrase is grammatically correct and functions as an adverbial modifier. Its use is relatively rare, most commonly appearing in news and media, science and wiki contexts. When using this phrase, ensure the context clearly indicates a hierarchical structure and a formal chain of command. Alternatives include "on direct command" or "following explicit instructions". Overall, this phrase is most effective when emphasizing accountability and a lack of discretionary action.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

acting on express orders

Uses "express" to stress the clarity and directness of the orders.

under strict orders

Highlights the mandatory and inflexible nature of the command.

following explicit instructions

Focuses on the act of adhering to the instructions given.

on direct command

Replaces "orders" with "command", emphasizing the authoritative nature of the instruction.

under unambiguous instructions

Replaces "explicit" with "unambiguous", stressing the clarity of the directive.

under precise command

Similar to "on direct command" using 'precise' to show accuracy.

pursuant to specific instructions

Formal alternative emphasizing adherence to particular guidelines.

with definite orders

Emphasizes the certainty and lack of ambiguity in the instruction.

as per detailed directives

Highlights the presence of thorough and precise instructions.

by clear direction

Shortens the phrase, focusing on the clarity of the instruction.

FAQs

How can I use "under explicit orders" in a sentence?

Use "under explicit orders" to show someone is acting because they were given direct, unambiguous instructions from an authority. For example, "The soldiers were "under explicit orders" to hold the line at all costs."

What's a more formal alternative to "under explicit orders"?

A more formal alternative could be "pursuant to specific instructions" or "as per detailed directives". These options are suitable for professional or academic contexts.

What does "explicit" mean in "under explicit orders"?

In this context, "explicit" means clear, direct, and unambiguous. The orders leave no room for interpretation or deviation.

Is it different than "under direct orders"?

"Under direct orders" is very similar in meaning to "under explicit orders". The word "explicit" emphasizes clarity and detail, whereas "direct" emphasizes the immediacy and lack of intermediaries in the instruction. You can also use something like "on direct command".