any order

Meanings

1. 1phrasefixed phrase

   In no fixed sequence; in whatever sequence you prefer or that happens.

   Grammar: Usually appears as 'in any order', often after a verb such as 'do', 'answer' or 'list'.

   Patterns

   • in any order
   • do something in any order
   • answer questions in any order

   You can answer the questions in any order.

   The names on the list can appear in any order.

   Please put the cards in any order you like.

2. 2phrasefixed phrase

   Used to say that a group of things is not arranged or ranked in a particular sequence.

   Grammar: Often contrasts with a required order: 'not in any order' means there is no set sequence.

   Patterns

   • not in any order
   • in any particular order

   The books on the shelf are not in any order.

   These files are not stored in any particular order.

Common combinations

in any order

The questions can be done in any order.

in any particular order

The names are not listed in any particular order.

in any order you like

Arrange the blocks in any order you like.

answer in any order

You may answer the parts in any order.

Synonyms and how they differ

randomly

Focuses on chance rather than free choice; 'in any order' suggests the choice is yours.

in no particular order

Very close, but often used when the speaker is about to list things and is not ranking them.

Opposites

Commonly confused: any order or in order?

Practice

Make it your own

Write a sentence using “any order”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.

Explore more words