English · Daily Life
out of order
/aʊt ʌv ˈɔːrdər/
[/aʊt ʌv ˈɔːrdər/]
not working
Intermediatephrase
Definition
Not functioning correctly, especially a machine. It can also mean behaving unacceptably.
Example
The lift is out of order, so we'll take the stairs.
The lift is out of order, so we'll take the stairs.
Etymology
From 'order' meaning proper working condition, negated by 'out of'.
How & Where It’s Used
Common on signs for broken machines.