Definition

Noun: A military tactical formation in which soldiers or units are spaced relatively far apart from each other, typically used during skirmishing or advance movements to reduce vulnerability to enemy fire. The specific distance between individuals or elements is determined by what the tactical situation allows.

Usage

This term is used primarily in military contexts to describe a specific deployment of troops. It contrasts with close-order formations (like marching columns or squares) and is employed when units need to maneuver while under fire.

Examples

• The platoon advanced in extended order to minimize casualties from enemy artillery.
• During the training exercise, the soldiers practiced moving from column formation into extended order.
• The tactical manual stated that extended order should be adopted when crossing open ground under observation.

Advanced Usage

• Historical Context: The concept of extended order became particularly important with the widespread use of rifles and machine guns, as dense formations became too vulnerable.
• Tactical Principle: The phrase "as widely separated as the tactical situation permits" is a key part of the definition, emphasizing that the spacing is a balance between dispersion for safety and maintaining unit cohesion and command control.

Variants and Related Words

• Open Order: A near-synonym often used interchangeably with extended order, describing a dispersed formation.
• Skirmish Order: Another related term, specifically denoting a formation used by skirmishers—light infantry who fight in loose formations ahead of the main body.
• Close Order: The antonym; a tight, compact formation used for marching, drill, or shock action.

Synonyms

• Dispersed formation
• Open order
• Loose formation

Antonyms

• Close order
• Tight formation
• Column formation

Related Phrases & Concepts

• To Deploy into Extended Order: The action of moving from a column or other formation into a dispersed line.
• Extended Order Drill: Training exercises focused on moving and fighting in this formation.

Noun

1. a military formation for skirmishing; as widely separated as the tactical situation permits