Definition

Noun: 1. A list of matters to be taken up (as at a meeting): A formal, pre-planned sequence of topics or items to be discussed, addressed, or voted on during a meeting or assembly. It serves as an agenda to guide the proceedings.

Usage

The term "order of business" is used to describe the structured plan for a formal meeting. It is typically prepared in advance and followed by the chairperson to ensure the meeting proceeds efficiently and covers all necessary topics. The phrase is almost always used with the definite article "the" (e.g., "the first order of business").

Examples

• Noun:
  • The secretary distributed the order of business before the committee meeting.
  • The first order of business is to approve the minutes from our last session.
  • Let's stick to the published order of business to ensure we finish on time.

Advanced Usage

• "As a matter of order" or "Point of order": While not the same phrase, these related parliamentary terms are used to question whether the meeting is following its agreed rules or order of business.
  • The delegate raised a point of order, arguing that the discussion was not on the current order of business.

Variants and Related Words

• Agenda (n): A list of items to be discussed; often used interchangeably with "order of business" in less formal contexts. An agenda may be more flexible, while an order of business often implies a stricter, rule-governed sequence.
• Schedule (n): A plan for carrying out a process or procedure, giving lists of intended events and times.
• Docket (n): A calendar or list of cases for trial or people having cases pending; in a broader sense, it can mean a list of matters to be addressed.

Synonyms

• Agenda
• Program
• Schedule
• Plan
• List of items

Related Phrases

• New business / Old business: Standard headings on an order of business. "Old business" (or "unfinished business") refers to topics carried over from a previous meeting, while "new business" introduces fresh topics.
  • Under new business on the order of business, the budget proposal was introduced.
• To move on to the next order of business: A phrase used by a chairperson to formally transition the meeting to the next agenda item.
  • If there are no further comments, I will move on to the next order of business.

Noun

1. a list of matters to be taken up (as at a meeting)