order of magnitude

noun phrase

: a range of magnitude extending from some value to ten times that value

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.
The failure-to-file penalty is essentially an order of magnitude greater for the first six months a taxpayer is not in compliance. Andy Weiner, Forbes, 6 Jan. 2025 Based on the organization’s own assessments, Gandhi thinks the new service could cut the cost of adopting new practices by another order of magnitude, to just 35 cents. IEEE Spectrum, 10 Dec. 2024 During a mission on or around the moon, the exposure could be up to one order of magnitude higher, according to the European Space Agency. Tereza Pultarova, Space.com, 21 Dec. 2024 The formula for the volume of a truncated pyramid (one with its top lopped off, also known as a frustum) is an order of magnitude more sophisticated. Cody Cottier, Discover Magazine, 3 Dec. 2024 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

Dictionary Entries Near 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 2 Feb. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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