we are under orders

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we are under orders" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when indicating that someone is following specific instructions or commands from a higher authority. Example: "As soldiers, we are under orders to secure the perimeter and ensure the safety of the area."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

We are under orders to locate and arrest Udayan Mitra, the soldier who seemed to be commanding the others said.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

"The story that I'm not sure is getting out," said Mr. Causey, then a medic with the unit, "is that while they're saying this was a ruthless band ravaging the countryside, we were under orders to do it".

The New York Times

They are under orders to stop the Rohingya entering Bangladesh.

The Guardian

Principals are under orders not to speak to reporters without permission.

The New York Times

Now they are under orders to stop any suspicious Iraqi tanker.

The New York Times

Its self-defence forces are under orders to shoot down any incoming North Korean missiles.

The Guardian

Today security forces are under orders to quell any sign of protest immediately.

The Guardian

American Marines occupying the area are under orders to leave the farmers' fields alone.

The New York Times

China's state banks are under orders to tighten up horribly lax lending habits.

The Economist

Under the terms of the no-flight zone edict, NATO aircraft are under orders to shoot down any hostile aircraft.

The New York Times

Breaking with Japanese early-to-bed culture, the 120 boutiques and 70 restaurants are under orders to stay open late.

The New York Times - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "we are under orders", ensure the context clearly indicates who is giving the orders. This adds clarity and authority to the statement.

Common error

Avoid using "we are under orders" without specifying who issued the orders. This can lead to confusion and weaken the impact of the statement. Always make the source of the order clear.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we are under orders" functions as a declarative statement indicating that the speaker or group is acting according to instructions from a superior authority. This aligns with Ludwig's analysis of the phrase.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "we are under orders" is a common expression used to indicate that an individual or group is acting in compliance with specific instructions from a higher authority. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and primarily found in news and media contexts. When using this phrase, clarity about the source of the orders is crucial. Alternative phrases such as "we have been instructed" or "we are commanded" can be used depending on the desired level of formality. While "we are under orders" is suitable for various professional and serious contexts, it's important to consider the specific audience and the nature of the communication when selecting the most appropriate phrasing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we have been instructed

Replaces "under orders" with a more formal synonym, "instructed".

we are commanded

Uses "commanded" to emphasize the authority giving the orders.

we are directed

Suggests a less forceful, more directional instruction.

our instructions are to

Rephrases to focus on the instructions themselves.

we are required

Focuses on the necessity of following the orders.

we must comply

Emphasizes the act of compliance with the orders.

we have a directive to

Uses 'directive' for a more official or bureaucratic tone.

we are bound by duty

Highlights the obligation to adhere to the orders.

we are obliged

Similar to 'required', but implies a moral or legal obligation.

it is our duty to

Highlights the sense of duty involved in following orders.

FAQs

What does "we are under orders" mean?

The phrase "we are under orders" signifies that a group or individual is acting according to specific instructions or commands given by a higher authority. It implies a lack of autonomy and a requirement to comply with the directives received.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "we are under orders"?

Use "we are under orders" when you want to emphasize that your actions are dictated by an external command and not by personal choice. This is common in military, law enforcement, and hierarchical organizational contexts.

What are some alternatives to "we are under orders"?

You can use alternatives such as "we have been instructed", "we are commanded", or "we are directed" depending on the level of formality and the nature of the command.

Is "we are under orders" formal or informal?

"We are under orders" is generally considered a neutral to formal phrase, suitable for professional or serious contexts. More informal settings might use simpler expressions like "we have to" or "we were told to".