under the orders

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "under the orders" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that someone is acting according to the commands or directives given by someone in authority. Example: "The soldiers were operating under the orders of their commanding officer during the mission."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

His killers operated under the orders of the country's interior minister.

The New Yorker

These purported to prove that Lenin was acting under the orders of the German general staff.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It took four years to separate the 630 branches under the orders of the European commission.

The Guardian - Business

"The Anouzla case shows that the judicial system is entirely under the orders of the monarchy.

The Guardian

These involve Afghanistan's Independent Election Commission (IEC), under the orders of the foreign-controlled Election Complaints Commission (ECC).

The Economist

Under the orders of the king, a new Constitution was drafted and submitted to a referendum in July.

The New York Times

The police shut down the celebration under the orders of Simon Lokodo, the Ethics and Integrity Minister.

The New Yorker

Wiki tells us that the historic lighthouse was built over 200 years ago, under the orders of George Washington.

The Guardian - Travel

"For us, it is simply not true that we act under the orders of a foreign 'boss'".

The Guardian

"It was only under the orders of Chirac that we worked," Mr. Mery is quoted as saying.

The New York Times

"I'm an activist, not an alpha male, and I place myself under the orders of the majority".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "under the orders", ensure the context clearly identifies who issued the orders to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid vague language that doesn't clearly specify who is giving the orders. Be precise in stating who is in command to maintain clarity and accountability.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "under the orders" functions as a prepositional phrase, typically modifying a verb to indicate the condition or instruction under which an action is performed. It specifies that an action is carried out due to a command or directive from someone in authority, as supported by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

59%

Wiki

25%

Formal & Business

4%

Less common in

Science

2%

Encyclopedias

2%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "under the orders" is a grammatically sound and frequently used prepositional phrase that indicates an action is performed due to a command or directive. As Ludwig AI explains, its primary function is to modify a verb, clarifying the condition under which an action takes place. The phrase is most commonly found in News & Media and Wiki contexts, with a neutral to formal register. When using "under the orders", clarity about the source of the orders is crucial. Alternatives include "on the instructions of" and "as directed by". Given its widespread use and clear meaning, "under the orders" is a reliable choice for expressing actions dictated by authority.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

on the instructions of

This alternative directly replaces "orders" with "instructions", maintaining a similar level of formality and meaning.

as directed by

A more concise way of saying the same thing, useful when brevity is important.

acting upon the command of

This option emphasizes the authority behind the instruction, using "command" to convey a stronger sense of obligation.

at the behest of

A more literary way to express that someone is acting on another's request or order.

in compliance with the mandate of

Indicates acting in accordance with a formal authorization or requirement.

pursuant to the directives of

This phrase is more formal and legalistic, emphasizing adherence to specific directives.

following the guidance of

Implies a less strict, more advisory role in the instructions received.

governed by the regulations of

Focuses on adherence to established rules and protocols.

subject to the authority of

Highlights the hierarchical structure and the obligation to obey.

by the decree of

Emphasizes the official and authoritative nature of the order.

FAQs

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

You can use "under the orders" to indicate that someone is acting according to the commands or directives given by someone in authority. For example: "The soldiers were operating under the orders of their commanding officer during the mission."

What are some alternatives to "under the orders"?

You can use alternatives like "on the instructions of", "as directed by", or "following the guidance of" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "by the orders" instead of "under the orders"?

While "by the orders" might be understood, "under the orders" is the more standard and widely accepted phrase to indicate acting according to someone's commands.

What's the difference between "under the orders" and "with the permission of"?

"Under the orders" implies a command or directive that must be followed, whereas "with the permission of" suggests a request was granted but doesn't necessarily imply an obligation to act.