be under orders

be under orders

To be following the instructions that one has been given by a superior. A: "Why are you still here?" B: "I'm under orders to detain that suspect until the detective can question him."

See also: order

be under ˈorders (to do something)

have been ordered or commanded (to do something): Prisoners of war were under orders to reveal only their name, rank and number.

See also: order