Out of order
When we say that something is out of order, we might mean that it isn’t working properly and can therefore not be used.
Some examples:
- The lift was out of order, so we had to walk up six flights of stairs.
- We apologise that the toilets on his train are out of order.
- We’ll have to use a different door – this one’s out of order.
- We should replace this machine; it’s always out of order.
Similar expressions include:
- Broken
- Out of use
- On the blink
- Out of commission
- Out of service
- Faulty
- Defective
- Malfunctioning
We also use “out of order” to to mean that something is inappropriate.
Some examples:
- She was completely out of order to talk to me like that.
- It’s out of order to talk during a concert.
- The way he treats his family is really out of order.
- I thought it was out of order for them to behave like that.
Similar expressions include:
- Not on
- Not cricket
- Unacceptable
- Inappropriate
- In bad taste
- Unfair
We can also use “out of order” to describe things happening in the wrong sequence.
Some examples:
- She tried to follow the instructions but got everything out of order.
- You’ve got that out of order: R comes before S.
- This filing system is a mess. Everything is out of order.
Similar expressions include:
- Out of sync
- Out of sequence
“Out of order” is often used in meetings and law courts when something is unacceptable according to the rules.
Some examples:
- We wanted to make another argument, but the judge ruled it out of order.
- That comment is out of order; I won’t allow it.
Similar expressions include:
- Inadmissible
- Disallowed
- Against the rules
- Unacceptable
Posted by Graham
