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

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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.
The 1970s saw electronic detectors take over for photographic plates, increasing the detector sensitivity by an order of magnitude. — Don Figer, The Conversation, 27 Aug. 2026 This is only slightly more massive than the Sagittarius Dwarf galaxy (approximately 400 million solar masses), which the Milky Way is currently cannibalizing and an order of magnitude less massive than the Small Magellanic Cloud. — Keith Cooper, Space.com, 17 Aug. 2026 Yet, that college needs an order of magnitude more revenue per student than that to keep the doors open. — Jim Nowlan, Chicago Tribune, 9 Aug. 2026 But Hyundai projects that figure will fall to roughly $30,000 once cumulative output passes 50,000 units, largely due to almost an order of magnitude simplification in the Atlas build and materials, exclusively reported by Forbes. — John Koetsier, Forbes.com, 17 July 2026 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

Rhymes for order of magnitude

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Browse Nearby Words

order of filiation
order of magnitude
order of service
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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 1 Sep. 2026.

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