in order—
1. in the sequence in which things occur:
- I will answer your three questions in order.
2. (of a machine, etc.) working properly:
- Before setting out on a long journey, see that your car is in order.
3. (also: in place) be due or appropriate:
- That phrase means different things to different people, so some explanation is in order.
4. in conformity with the prescribed mode of proceeding in debates, etc.:
- The chairman ruled that the question was in order.
in orders—said of smb. appointed or ordained minister of the Christian church:
- He was in orders, but was not a placed minister.
Note: The expression does not correlate in meaning with the phrase under orders—(also: on orders) acting under authoritative instructions:
- Congress ratified the bill and sent it to the President who was under orders from his backers to sign it into law.