marching orders

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

His marching orders came straight from his wife, which is why that gnome won’t go up on eBay—at not least for now.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 10, 2026

After giving marching orders to Senate Republicans, Trump wrapped his day with a visit to Graceland, the palatial former home of Elvis Presley.

From Salon • Mar. 23, 2026

Early in Michael McIndoe’s shift on Jan. 2, 2025, his crew got their marching orders: Pick up hoses left overnight at the scene of the Lachman fire.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 1, 2026

The Westminster councillor said she would rewrite the London police and crime plan and give "new marching orders" to the Met to "tackle crime that matters".

From BBC • Jan. 7, 2026

One hour and fifty-five minutes after we get our marching orders, his face appears in the doorway.

From "Water for Elephants" by Sara Gruen