chain of command

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "chain of command" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to refer to a system of power that exists within an organization, where higher ranking members of the organization give orders to lower ranking members of the organization. For example, "In our organization, we follow a strict chain of command, starting with the CEO and cascading downward."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But the chain of command remained unified.

The Economist

That was the chain of command.

The New York Times - Sports

And what is the chain of command?

The New York Times

"Forget the chain of command!

The New York Times

Indeed there was a chain of command.

The Guardian

You respect the chain of command.

The Guardian

The chain of command was broken.

The New York Times - Magazine

How's the chain of command functioning?

The New York Times

'Chain of Command': What Geneva Conventions?

The New York Times - Books

GENERAL MYERS -- I'll walk through the chain of command, and ----... SENATof Mcommand- Chain of command, please.

The New York Times

Then, it goes down the chain of command".

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing organizational issues, use "chain of command" to highlight structural problems or inefficiencies.

Common error

Don't assume that rigidly following the "chain of command" is always the best course of action, especially in rapidly changing situations where bypassing protocol might be necessary for efficiency.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "chain of command" functions as a noun phrase that identifies a hierarchical system of authority and communication within an organization. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is used to describe structures where orders and information flow from higher to lower levels.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Wiki

6%

Formal & Business

4%

Less common in

Science

4%

Academia

3%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "chain of command" is a commonly used noun phrase that describes the hierarchical structure of authority within an organization. According to Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and widely used. The phrase is most frequently found in News & Media, but also appears in Wiki and Formal & Business contexts. When writing, it's important to consider the specific context and avoid rigid adherence when flexibility is needed. Alternatives such as "hierarchy of authority" or "command structure" can be used to add variety to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

command structure

A more concise way to refer to the organization of command.

hierarchy of authority

Replaces 'command' with 'authority', focusing on the power structure.

line of authority

Focuses on the direct path of power, rather than the entire structure.

organizational hierarchy

Emphasizes the broader organizational context of the command structure.

reporting structure

Focuses on who reports to whom within the organization.

management hierarchy

Specifically refers to the hierarchical structure within management.

lines of communication

Highlights the communication flow within a structured system.

management control

Highlights control and power within the hierarchy.

official channels

Refers to the established pathways for communication and decision-making.

pecking order

An informal term describing a hierarchy, often in a social context.

FAQs

How is the phrase "chain of command" typically used in a sentence?

The phrase "chain of command" is used to describe the hierarchical structure of authority in an organization. For example, "All requests must go through the "proper channels"".

What are some alternative phrases for "chain of command"?

Alternatives include "hierarchy of authority", "command structure", or "line of authority", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

In what situations is it appropriate to bypass the "chain of command"?

Bypassing the "chain of command" may be appropriate in emergency situations, when reporting ethical violations, or when the "normal channels" are ineffective.

How does the "chain of command" affect communication within an organization?

The "chain of command" dictates how information flows within an organization, typically moving from lower levels to higher levels and vice versa. This can ensure order and accountability but may also slow down "information flow".