Subordinate to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Subordinate to" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate a lower rank or position in relation to something else, often in organizational or hierarchical contexts. Example: "In our company structure, the marketing department is subordinate to the sales department."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

NCOs are subordinate to commissioned officers.

The New York Times

Otherwise we're all subordinate to bureaucrats.

The Economist

Capital is subordinate to that.

The Guardian

It was subordinate to the Politburo.

The Guardian

"He's become subordinate to her efforts.

The New York Times

In Western culture, color has always been subordinate to line.

The New York Times

Character, in this papacy, is subordinate to spectacle.

The New Yorker

The MCI Quips, moreover, were subordinate to other MCI debts.

The New York Times

Even misery is subordinate to the big beat.

The Guardian - Music

Currently other parties are subordinate to the Communist Party.

The New York Times

Although generally subordinate to men, certain women had signficant influence.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "subordinate to", ensure the relationship between the two entities is clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. For example, specify the criteria or reasons for the subordination.

Common error

Avoid using "subordinate to" when describing collaborative relationships. This phrase implies a hierarchical structure, not a partnership based on mutual respect and shared goals.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "Subordinate to" functions as a prepositional phrase indicating a hierarchical relationship where one entity or concept is ranked lower or is of less importance than another. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Encyclopedias

20%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "Subordinate to" is a grammatically sound and frequently used prepositional phrase that indicates a hierarchical relationship. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is most commonly found in news, encyclopedic, and scientific contexts, highlighting its role in establishing clear orders of authority or importance. When using this phrase, ensure you accurately represent the intended relationship and avoid substituting it in collaborative scenarios. Remember that while alternatives exist, "Subordinate to" clearly conveys the intended meaning when establishing hierarchical order.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Subject to

Indicates dependence or conditionality, implying that one thing is affected by or relies upon another.

Inferior to

Directly expresses a lower status or quality compared to something else.

Secondary to

Highlights a lower level of importance or priority.

Dependent on

Focuses on the reliance of one entity on another.

Under the authority of

Emphasizes a hierarchical structure and control.

Answerable to

Implies accountability and a reporting relationship.

Tributary to

Highlights the act of owing tribute or allegiance.

Subservient to

Suggests a willing or obligated obedience to another's wishes.

Junior to

Describes a position of lower rank, often in a professional or social context.

Conditional to

Specifies a state of dependency where one thing happens only if another occurs.

FAQs

How to use "Subordinate to" in a sentence?

Use "Subordinate to" to indicate that one thing is of lower rank or importance than another. For example, "In the military, privates are "subordinate to" sergeants".

What can I say instead of "Subordinate to"?

You can use alternatives like "inferior to", "secondary to", or "dependent on" depending on the specific context.

Which is correct, "Subordinate to" or "Subordinate with"?

"Subordinate to" is the correct phrase. "Subordinate with" is grammatically incorrect in standard English.

What's the difference between "subject to" and "Subordinate to"?

"Subject to" implies being affected by something, while "Subordinate to" indicates a lower rank or importance. For example, "The plan is subject to change" versus "The vice president is "subordinate to" the president".