out of order
Meaning
Not working properly; or not arranged in the correct sequence; also used to say behavior/procedure is unacceptable.
Origin
From the literal sense of being outside the proper sequence (“in order”). By the 19th–20th centuries it was also widely used on signs for broken equipment (“Out of order”) and extended to mean “improper/unacceptable” behavior or procedure.
Notes
Most commonly seen on signs meaning “broken/unavailable.” With people/actions, it means “inappropriate/unacceptable,” often mildly critical; context clarifies which sense is meant.
Examples
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The elevator is out of order, so we’ll have to take the stairs.
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Your pages are out of order—page 12 comes before page 8.
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The cashier said the card reader is out of order and asked if I could pay with cash.
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When the witness started yelling, the judge warned him that he was out of order.
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I’m sorry, but your request is out of order because it didn’t go through the proper channel.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Usually used predicatively: “The machine is out of order.” Also as a fixed sign/label. For sequence: “The pages are out of order.” For behavior: “That comment is out of order.” Little variation; no article needed.
Synonyms
- broken
- not working
- malfunctioning
- unavailable
- in disarray
- in the wrong order
- inappropriate
- unacceptable
Antonyms
- in order
- working
- functional
- appropriate