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
The intensity for that is, of course, an order of magnitude higher than for a regular-season game in early August.
—
Bill Goodykoontz, AZCentral.com, 26 Mar. 2026
The magnitude of the smaller shocks, which normally start about an order of magnitude below the main earthquake, tends to fall off over a period of time, from weeks to even decades.
—Don Sweeney, Sacbee.com, 24 Mar. 2026
Their approach can improve ionic conductivity by up to an order of magnitude while maintaining the material’s structural stability.
—Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 24 Mar. 2026
Still, the prospect of a man who remains eighth-in-line to the British throne potentially facing criminal charges is of a different order of magnitude.
—Niall Stanage, The Hill, 19 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for order of magnitude
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Bill Goodykoontz, AZCentral.com, 26 Mar. 2026
The magnitude of the smaller shocks, which normally start about an order of magnitude below the main earthquake, tends to fall off over a period of time, from weeks to even decades.
—Don Sweeney, Sacbee.com, 24 Mar. 2026
Their approach can improve ionic conductivity by up to an order of magnitude while maintaining the material’s structural stability.
—Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 24 Mar. 2026
Still, the prospect of a man who remains eighth-in-line to the British throne potentially facing criminal charges is of a different order of magnitude.
—Niall Stanage, The Hill, 19 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for order of magnitude
Cite this Entry
“Order of magnitude.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/order%20of%20magnitude. Accessed 5 Apr. 2026.
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