further down the ladder

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "further down the ladder" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a lower position in a hierarchy or a less advanced stage in a process. Example: "As you progress in your career, you may find that opportunities become more limited further down the ladder."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

But spare a thought for those a little further down the ladder, such as Croatian third division outfit NK Nedeljanec.

The Guardian - Sport

Should they improve their form against sides further down the ladder, they look well placed to secure a home final.

The Guardian - Sport

The further down the ladder of deprivation the kids are, the more compelling their inability or unwillingness to articulate thoughts and feelings.

The Guardian

And to these feelings they added the cultural tendency to identify "up" the social ladder with the planter, the oil magnate, and to feel detached from those further down the ladder.

The Guardian

In the latest report on prices received at the wholesale level, the government said that prices for crude goods fell 2.1percentt, showing that there was little inflation further down the ladder of production.

The New York Times

Karadzic may have had overall command of the Bosnian Serb armed forces, but he was always primarily a politician, which makes it very difficult to sift what he personally ordered from what was carried out under the authority of those further down the ladder.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

Therefore, the learning activities we provide in the classroom have the potential to influence students further down on the educational ladder.

CBE Life Sciences Education

As stated in a World Health Organization pamphlet: "People further down the social ladder usually run at least twice the risk of serious illness and premature death of those near the top".

Forbes

The bottom line is that we can't keep fostering growth at the very top of the economic ladder while New Yorkers further down the economic ladder have nowhere to climb.

Huffington Post

"They must be prepared to look at cheaper areas - even if it means travelling a bit further and settling for something that may be a bit further down on the rungs of the ladder.

The Guardian - Money

The gap is even wider further down the wealth ladder.

The Guardian - Money

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use the phrase "further down the ladder" when you want to imply a hierarchical structure or a step-by-step process where the position or stage is less advanced or of lower status.

Common error

Avoid using "further down the ladder" in contexts that don't involve a clear hierarchical or sequential progression. For example, it's inappropriate to use it to describe a simple difference in opinion or preference.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "further down the ladder" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate a relative position in a hierarchy or sequence. As Ludwig AI points out, this refers to positions or stages that are lower in rank or less advanced.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

15%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "further down the ladder" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to describe a lower position or less advanced stage in a hierarchy or process. As Ludwig AI explains, this phrase effectively conveys a sense of relative placement and is suitable for various contexts, ranging from news reporting to academic discourse. When writing, be mindful of the inherent hierarchical implication and ensure it aligns with the intended meaning. Alternative phrases such as "lower on the scale" or "in a subordinate role" can provide nuanced alternatives, depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

lower on the scale

Focuses on a relative position on a graded spectrum or scale rather than a literal ladder.

at a lower echelon

Uses a more formal term ('echelon') for rank or level within an organization.

in a subordinate role

Specifically emphasizes the hierarchical aspect of a role or position.

in the lower ranks

Specifically refers to a position within a military or organizational hierarchy.

at a less advanced stage

Focuses on progress and development rather than hierarchical placement.

at a disadvantage

Highlights the negative consequences of being in a lower position rather than the position itself.

towards the bottom

Emphasizes the physical location at the base or lower part of something, rather than a figurative position.

in an inferior position

Highlights the lesser status or quality of the position.

in a less privileged situation

Draws attention to the lack of advantages or benefits associated with a lower position.

in a weaker position

Emphasizes the lack of power or influence associated with a lower position.

FAQs

How can I use "further down the ladder" in a sentence?

You can use "further down the ladder" to describe a lower position in a hierarchy, such as "Those "further down the ladder" often face different challenges than those at the top".

What does "further down the ladder" mean?

"Further down the ladder" refers to a position that is lower in rank, status, or progression within a defined hierarchy or sequence.

What's a similar phrase to "further down the ladder"?

Similar phrases include "lower on the scale", "in a subordinate role", or "at a less advanced stage" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "further down the ladder" in formal writing?

Yes, "further down the ladder" is appropriate for formal writing, particularly when discussing organizational structures, career progression, or social hierarchies. However, consider the specific context and audience to ensure it aligns with the overall tone.