  It is shown that the Imry-Ma theorem stating that in space dimensions d<4 the
introduction of an arbitrarily small concentration of defects of the "random
local field" type in a system with continuous symmetry of the n-component
vector order parameter (O(n)model) leads to the long-range order collapse and
to the occurrence of a disordered state, is not true if the anisotropic
distribution of the defect-induced random local field directions in the
n-dimensional space of the order parameter leads to the defect-induced
effective anisotropy of the "easy axis" type. For a weakly anisotropic field
distribution, in space dimensions 2<d<4 there exists some critical defect
concentration, above which the inhomogeneous Imry-Ma state can exist as an
equilibrium one. At lower defect concentration the long-range order takes place
in the system. For a strongly anisotropic field distribution, the Imry-Ma state
is suppressed completely and the long-range order state takes place at any
defect concentration.
