be under orders

be under orders

To be following the instructions given by a superior. I'm under orders to detain the suspect until the detective can question him.

See also: order

Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2015 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.

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

Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary © Farlex 2017