Definition

Noun: A formal question or challenge raised during a meeting or debate concerning whether the current activity or procedure violates the established rules of order (e.g., parliamentary procedure). It is a procedural motion used to enforce the rules and ensure proper conduct.

Usage

A "point of order" is raised to interrupt the current speaker or proceeding to address a perceived breach of the rules. The person raising it does not debate the substantive issue but questions the procedural correctness. The chairperson (e.g., the meeting's presiding officer) must rule on its validity immediately.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The delegate raised a point of order, arguing that the discussion was outside the scope of the agenda.
  • "Point of order, Madam Chair!" he interjected. "The speaker is exceeding their allotted time."
  • The chair sustained the point of order and directed the committee to return to the main motion.

Advanced Usage

• Raising a point of order: The formal act of interrupting to state the procedural violation.
  • You must stand and say "I rise to a point of order" or simply "Point of order" to be recognized by the chair.
• The chair rules on a point of order: The decision made by the presiding officer regarding whether the point is valid.
  • After hearing the argument, the chair ruled the point of order well-taken and halted the vote.

Variants and Related Words

• Point of information (n): A request for clarification or facts, not a challenge to procedure.
• Point of personal privilege (n): A question relating to the rights, comfort, or safety of a member.
• Appeal (n): A challenge to the decision of the chair on a point of order, usually put to a vote of the assembly.

Synonyms

• Procedural objection
• Parliamentary inquiry (specifically when questioning a rule, not necessarily objecting)

Related Phrases

• To call someone to order: The act of the chair directing a member to comply with the rules, often following a point of order.
  • The chair called the member to order for engaging in personal remarks.
• To be out of order: The state of violating procedural rules.
  • The amendment was ruled out of order because it was not germane to the main motion.

Noun

1. a question as to whether the current proceedings are allowed by parliamentary procedure