to order / arrange
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to order
To give an official instruction or command that must be followed.
Die Schulleitung hat angeordnet, dass während der Prüfung alle Handys ausgeschaltet sein müssen.
The school administration ordered that all cell phones must be switched off during the exam.
'Anordnen' (to order / arrange) is a separable verb. The prefix 'an' separates in a main clause and goes at the end. In subordinate clauses or in the infinitive with 'zu', the verb stays together.
Der Richter ordnet eine Untersuchung an.
The judge orders an investigation.
The verb 'anordnen' (to order / arrange) is closely related to the verb 'ordnen' (to put something in order) and the noun 'die Ordnung' (order). This connection helps you understand the basic meaning of structure and organization.
Bitte ordne deine Bücher im Regal.
Please arrange your books on the shelf.
In the meaning 'befehlen' (to command), 'anordnen' (to order) is a formal, official word. The command can be formulated as an accusative object, as a 'dass' clause, or as an infinitive construction with 'zu'.
Die Regierung ordnete neue Sicherheitsmaßnahmen an.
The government ordered new security measures.
When 'anordnen' means 'arrangieren' (to arrange), it usually refers to sorting or placing several concrete objects. Typical objects are pictures, furniture, books, or data in a table.
Sie ordnete die Stühle in einem Kreis an.
She arranged the chairs in a circle.
to oblige / commit
'verpflichten' and 'anordnen' can both express that someone has to do something. 'anordnen' means that an institution or person gives an official instruction. 'verpflichten' places more emphasis on the obligation that arises for someone, often through a law, contract, or rule. So you can order a measure with 'anordnen' and thereby oblige people to do something with 'verpflichten'. Learners confuse the words because both occur in official situations. In practical terms: 'anordnen' describes the order, while 'verpflichten' describes the binding obligation for the person.
Nach dem Unfall ordnete die Polizei eine Sperrung der Straße an.
After the accident, the police ordered the road to be closed.
Das Gesetz verpflichtet Autofahrer zum Anlegen des Sicherheitsgurts.
The law obliges drivers to wear a seat belt.