pecking order

USAGE SUMMARY

"pecking order" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
This phrase is a metaphor used to describe a hierarchy, or a system in which each person's rank is determined by their relative power or influence. For example, you could say "In our family, there is a clear pecking order--my dad is at the top, followed by my mom, my brother, and so on."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

The pecking order changed in October 2006.

The Guardian - Sport

Pecking order isn't an idiom for no reason.

The New Yorker

There's inevitably a pecking order at every break.

The New York Times - Travel

The usual slasher-movie pecking order of retribution applies.

The New York Times

Here the Europeans agree in principle.Then there is pecking order.

The Economist

2. What are your positions in the company pecking order?

Independent

The pecking order was overturned.

The New York Times

LIKE chickens, people have a pecking order.

The Economist

There is a pecking order.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

They indicate the pecking order.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

But that's the pecking order.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using "pecking order" to add a layer of nuance when discussing power structures; it subtly implies inherent competition and dominance, much like the behavior of chickens.

Common error

Avoid using "pecking order" when you simply mean 'organizational structure' or 'hierarchy' if the nuance of inherent competition is not present or relevant to the context. The term carries a connotation of struggle for dominance, which may not always be appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "pecking order" functions as a noun, typically used to describe a hierarchical social system or order within a group. Ludwig AI highlights its usage in contexts ranging from corporate environments to animal behavior, indicating its versatility.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Formal & Business

12%

Wiki

7%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

4%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "pecking order" is a common and correct noun phrase used to describe a social hierarchy, often with implied competition. Ludwig AI confirms its validity, supported by numerous examples from reputable sources like The New York Times and The Guardian. While generally neutral in register, leaning slightly toward informal, it's most frequently found in News & Media contexts. When using the phrase, consider whether the nuance of inherent competition is appropriate; otherwise, consider alternatives like "hierarchy" or "organizational structure". Avoid using it in strictly formal or academic contexts, unless the competitive dynamic is specifically relevant. Understanding these nuances will help ensure you use "pecking order" effectively and accurately in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

hierarchy

Refers to a system in which entities are ranked according to status or authority.

power structure

Highlights the distribution of power and influence within a group or organization.

social hierarchy

Specifies the context as a social setting, focusing on societal ranking.

chain of command

Emphasizes the formal structure of authority and reporting lines.

ranking system

Focuses on the methodology and criteria used for establishing order.

order of precedence

Implies a formal or established ranking based on importance or seniority.

organizational structure

Broader term referring to how an organization is arranged, which includes hierarchy.

ladder of success

Metaphorically represents the progression through levels of achievement or status.

class system

Specifically refers to hierarchical structures based on social or economic class.

status quo

Captures the existing state of affairs, including the established hierarchical order.

FAQs

How can I use "pecking order" in a sentence?

You can use "pecking order" to describe the hierarchy within a group or organization. For example, "There's a clear "hierarchy" in the office, with the CEO at the top of the "pecking order".

What can I say instead of "pecking order"?

Alternatives to "pecking order" include "hierarchy", "power structure", or "ranking system", depending on the context.

Is "pecking order" formal or informal?

"Pecking order" is generally considered an informal term. While it can be used in professional contexts, more formal alternatives like "chain of command" might be preferable in some situations.

What does "pecking order" literally refer to?

The term "pecking order" originates from the behavior of chickens, where some birds dominate others, establishing a "social hierarchy" through pecking.