OUT OF ORDER (1)

Good morning everyone.

Today we are going to answer another question from a Daily Vitamin Plus! user:

Hello Matthew!
I have an urgent question for you. At this moment our clients use headphones during our bus tour. When there is a technical problem with the connexion point we need to attach an adhesive sign telling them that it is not working. Is it possible to use "Damaged" or would it be better to use "Out of order" or "Not working"? I'm a bit confused. THANK YOU SO MUCH!!!
Mònica G.

Today's Expression is: OUT OF ORDER

It means: not working correctly (when referring to machines)

Example 1:
He went to buy a coke during the break, but the snack machine had an out-of-order sign on it, so he had to go down to the bar to get one.

Example 2:
Janet: I'm enjoying this bus tour a lot.
Mark: Of course you are...you have headphones. Mine are out of order. Can I borrow yours for the rest of the tour?

Out of Order is also used in other contexts, and Monday we will look at some more uses.

So, Mónica, although your options damaged and not working are perfectly correct, there is a tendency to use the more formal out of order for signs on equipment or machines in public places to indicate that they are not working.

If you have any questions about today's Daily Vitamin please post them in the Daily Vitamin Plus! forum section on our website. Thanks for your question Mónica.

Enjoy your day and have a great weekend!