under strict orders

USAGE SUMMARY

"under strict orders" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used to convey that someone is following specific instructions or commands. This phrase is often used to highlight the seriousness or strictness of the orders being followed. Example: The students were under strict orders not to speak during the exam.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

William Hague: earnest swot under strict orders to be dour?

The Guardian

As a result, the marines manning the checkpoint were under strict orders to stop every car.

The New York Times

"It went to a tie-break," says McEnroe. "We were under strict orders.

The Guardian - Sport

Israel Hayom journalists are reportedly under strict orders not to speak publicly about their paper.

The New Yorker

They are under strict orders to stay in the house, with the doors locked.

The New York Times

We had several conversations, but he was under strict orders not to discuss his job.

The New York Times - Magazine

Administration officials were under strict orders not to detail the small talk.

The New York Times

For example, Eisenhower was under strict orders to eat a bland diet for his Crohn's disease.

The New York Times - Health

But Augustus and Wesley spent their days in Apartment 3E, under strict orders from their mother.

The New York Times

I'm upstairs in my old bedroom and they're under strict orders: do not shout at me.

The Guardian - Music

Under strict orders from me, my emissary insisted, and finally succeeded.

The New York Times - Food

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "under strict orders" when you want to emphasize the importance of following instructions exactly, often implying serious consequences for non-compliance.

Common error

Avoid using "under strict orders" when the instructions are merely suggestions or polite requests. This phrase implies a formal, authoritative command structure.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "under strict orders" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb to indicate the conditions under which an action is performed. As Ludwig AI confirms, it conveys the seriousness and specificity of the instructions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Formal & Business

15%

Academia

5%

Less common in

Science

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "under strict orders" is a common and grammatically correct way to indicate that someone is acting according to explicit and serious commands. Ludwig AI validates its proper use in conveying obedience and the importance of adhering to specific instructions. Primarily found in news and media, it also appears in formal business and academic contexts. When using this phrase, ensure it accurately reflects a formal, authoritative command structure, as misuse can overstate the situation. Alternative phrasing like "under explicit instructions" or "under firm command" may be more appropriate depending on the specific context and nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

under explicit instructions

Emphasizes clarity and detail in the instructions given, rather than the severity of consequences.

under direct orders

Highlights the immediacy and personal nature of the command, suggesting it came from a high authority.

instructed to strictly comply

Focuses on the action of complying, emphasizing obedience.

under firm command

Focuses on the authority issuing the orders, highlighting a hierarchical structure.

required to adhere to strict protocols

Highlights the formal and standardized nature of the instructions.

bound by stringent directives

More formal, highlighting the binding nature and rigor of the rules to follow.

obliged to follow precise guidelines

Emphasizes the need to adhere to specific and detailed rules.

governed by rigid rules

Highlights inflexibility and unyielding nature of the governing rules.

compelled by mandatory regulations

Suggests a legal or policy framework necessitating the action.

following a non-negotiable mandate

Underlines the unchangeable nature and compulsory aspect of the assigned task or order.

FAQs

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

You can use "under strict orders" to indicate that someone is required to follow specific instructions closely. For example: "The soldiers were "under strict orders" not to engage without provocation."

What are some alternatives to saying "under strict orders"?

Alternatives include "under explicit instructions", "under firm command", or "bound by stringent directives", depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "under strictly orders" instead of "under strict orders"?

No, the correct phrase is ""under strict orders"". Using "strictly" is grammatically incorrect in this context.

What's the difference between "under strict orders" and "following protocol"?

"Under strict orders" implies a specific command from an authority, while "following protocol" refers to adhering to established procedures or guidelines. One is personal, and the other is institutional.