Out of order
adjective
Something is broken or not working correctly.
The elevator is out of order, we'll have to take the stairs.
Often appears as...
- machine is out of order
- lift is out of order
adjective
Not following the correct sequence or arrangement.
The pages of the book are out of order, making it confusing to read.
Often appears as...
- pages are out of order
- numbers are out of order
adjective
Breaking the rules or accepted standards of behavior.
His comments were completely out of order, and he was asked to leave the meeting.
Often appears as...
- comments are out of order
- behavior is out of order
Usage tips
Disapproving
adjective
Something is broken or not working correctly.
The elevator is out of order, we'll have to take the stairs.
Often appears as...
- machine is out of order
- lift is out of order
adjective
Not following the correct sequence or arrangement.
The pages of the book are out of order, making it confusing to read.
Often appears as...
- pages are out of order
- numbers are out of order
adjective
Breaking the rules or accepted standards of behavior.
His comments were completely out of order, and he was asked to leave the meeting.
Often appears as...
- comments are out of order
- behavior is out of order
Usage tips
Disapproving
Definition 1 of 3
Pro Tip 1/3Public Spaces
Often used to denote malfunction in public facilities like toilets, ATMs, or vending machines.
Sorry, the restroom is out of order at the moment.
Pro Tip 2/3Immediate Context
Look for signs or notices nearby, which often explain that something isn't working.
The sign reads 'Out of Order,' so we can't use this printer.
Pro Tip 3/3Temporary State
Suggests the item can be fixed, not permanently broken or discarded.
The coffee machine is out of order, but maintenance is on it.
Pro Tip 1/3Public Spaces
Often used to denote malfunction in public facilities like toilets, ATMs, or vending machines.
Sorry, the restroom is out of order at the moment.
Pro Tip 2/3Immediate Context
Look for signs or notices nearby, which often explain that something isn't working.
The sign reads 'Out of Order,' so we can't use this printer.
Pro Tip 3/3Temporary State
Suggests the item can be fixed, not permanently broken or discarded.
The coffee machine is out of order, but maintenance is on it.
Pro Tip 1/3Public Spaces
Often used to denote malfunction in public facilities like toilets, ATMs, or vending machines.
Sorry, the restroom is out of order at the moment.
Pro Tip 2/3Immediate Context
Look for signs or notices nearby, which often explain that something isn't working.
The sign reads 'Out of Order,' so we can't use this printer.
Pro Tip 3/3Temporary State
Suggests the item can be fixed, not permanently broken or discarded.
The coffee machine is out of order, but maintenance is on it.
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