Subordination

/səˌbɔːrdəˈneɪʃən/

Meaning & Definition

noun

the act of placing in a lower rank or position.

The subordination of the assistant's role to that of the manager was evident in the organizational chart.

the condition of being lower in status or rank.

Her subordination to her supervisor made it difficult for her to voice her opinions during meetings.

the relation of a clause or phrase to another clause or phrase in a sentence.

In the sentence 'Although it was raining, we decided to go for a walk,' the subordination indicates that the second clause depends on the first.

the act of making someone or something subordinate.

The subordination of individual interests to the common good is crucial for a successful team dynamic.

From Late Latin subordinatio, from subordinare ('to subordinate'), from sub- ('under') + ordinare ('to put in order').

chain of command

A system where entities are ranked one above the other according to authority.

subordinate clause

A clause that depends on a main clause; it cannot stand alone.

rank and file

The ordinary members of an organization, as opposed to the leaders.

subordinate

Lower in rank or position.

superordinate

Higher in rank or position.

subservient

Prepared to obey others unquestioningly.

Being bossed around.

I feel like I'm in a subordination zone at my job with all these micromanagers.

Playing second fiddle.

In the team, I’m always in a subordination role, just playing second fiddle to the lead.