order of magnitude

noun phrase

: a range of magnitude extending from some value to ten times that value
often used figuratively
The two problems are not of the same order of magnitude. [=are not equally important]

Examples of order of magnitude in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
An astonishing 51 cleared, an order of magnitude beyond a typical project where only a handful of names ever reach that stage. Anthony Shore, Fortune, 26 Oct. 2025 Biomimetic membranes incorporating these proteins achieve water permeability an order of magnitude higher than conventional commercial alternatives. Tejasri Gururaj, Interesting Engineering, 24 Oct. 2025 That pipeline is only about one-third the size of the one needed for the Qattara Depression, but the order of magnitude is interesting. Big Think, 17 Oct. 2025 The order of magnitude may seem plausible, but the question cannot be answered exactly. Manon Bischoff, Scientific American, 2 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for order of magnitude

Word History

First Known Use

1875, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of order of magnitude was in 1875

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Cite this Entry

“Order of magnitude.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/order%20of%20magnitude. Accessed 5 Nov. 2025.

Last Updated: - Definition revised
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