out of order

out of order  {adv.} or  {adj. phr.}

1. In the wrong order; not coming after one another in the right way.

Peter wrote the words of the sentence out of order.

Don't get out of order, children. Stay in your places in line.

Contrast: IN ORDER.

2. In poor condition; not working properly.

Our television set is out of order.

3. Against the rules; not suitable.

The judge told the people in the courtroom that they were out of order because they were so noisy.

The children's whispering was out of order in the church.

Compare: OUT OF LINE, OUT OF PLACE, OUT OF THE WAY, OUT OF TURN, OUT OF COMMISSION (2).

Contrast: IN ORDER.