subordination

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "subordination" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to the act of subordinating or the state of being subordinate - that is, to be lower in rank or importance than someone else. For example: "The former employee was not happy with the subordination of authority that came with their new job."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The claim that women are systematically subordinated and that this subordination has a grievous impact on women's lives is central to feminism.

SEP

Feminine and masculine gender-norms, however, are problematic in that gendered behaviour conveniently fits with and reinforces women's subordination so that women are socialised into subordinate social roles: they learn to be passive, ignorant, docile, emotional helpmeets for men (Millett 1971, 26).

SEP

In both viae, common terms are subordinated to common concepts, and it is in virtue of this subordination that they ultimately signify what their concepts represent.

SEP

One example of this subordination is found in the relation between the science of geometry and its subordinate sciences.

SEP

But that would make existing investors worry more about subordination to the ECB in the event of a restructuring.

The Economist

Mr Putin, for his part, appears poised to achieve the subordination of Ukraine he sought from the outset thanks to his ruthless escalation of the conflict.The peace plan contains elements of roadmaps set forth by both leaders.

The Economist

General Bonett repeated the message of military subordination firmly as he was sworn in, and, in case anyone had not noticed, Mr Samper stamped it in again at a ceremony on July 29th in which the armed forces acknowledged their new commander.General Bonett's rhetoric is more conciliatory than his predecessor's, and some on the right fear he may be soft on the guerrillas.

The Economist

On the other hand he also stressed that separate sovereign states could be part of a "single, spiritual space"—that seemed to imply that spiritual commonality did not always require subordination to the same earthly master.I have thought a lot about the relationship between Russian Orthodoxy and Russian statehood.

The Economist

Financial markets are now gripped by fears of "subordination"—being pushed down the pecking order of creditors.

The Economist

But it is certain to tinker.Lacking its old subordination to executive power, the PRI is more than ever an agglomeration of factions and barons.

The Economist

The article was intended to highlight the subordination of constitutionally independent powers of state to the president.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "subordination", ensure that the context clearly indicates what is being subordinated and to what it is being subordinated.

Common error

Avoid using "subordination" when simply describing differences in roles or responsibilities without an inherent power dynamic. "Coordination" or "collaboration" might be more appropriate in those scenarios.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "subordination" is as a noun. It typically refers to the act of making something secondary or less important, or the state of being in a lower rank or position. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

35%

News & Media

30%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

10%

Reference

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "subordination" functions as a noun describing a state of being lower in rank or importance, or the act of causing this state. As highlighted by Ludwig, the term is grammatically correct and versatile, commonly appearing in academic, news, and formal business contexts. Related terms include "subservience", "inferiority", and "dependence", each carrying slightly different implications. When using "subordination", clarity is crucial to convey intended power dynamics accurately. Based on Ludwig AI, it's essential to understand these subtle distinctions to avoid misapplication, especially when more neutral terms like "coordination" might be appropriate. The term is a key component of discussions surrounding power dynamics and hierarchical structures across diverse domains.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

subservience

This emphasizes obedience and compliance to a superior authority.

domination

This focuses on the exercise of control or power over others.

hierarchy

This term refers to a system where entities are ranked, implying a relationship of superiority and inferiority.

compliance

This suggests conformity or obedience to rules or wishes.

inferiority

This highlights the state of being lower in rank or status.

deference

This highlights respectful submission or yielding to the judgment of another.

control

This emphasizes the power to influence or direct people's behavior or the course of events.

dependence

This indicates a reliance on something or someone else, often implying a lack of autonomy.

suppression

This emphasizes the act of preventing something from developing or expressing itself.

oppression

This highlights the unjust exercise of authority or power.

FAQs

How is "subordination" typically used in a sentence?

The word "subordination" often describes the state of being lower in rank or importance. For instance, "The "subordination of individual interests" to the group's well-being is a key aspect of the company's philosophy."

What are some alternatives to the word "subordination"?

Depending on the context, you could use words like "subservience", "inferiority", or "dependence". Each alternative conveys a slightly different nuance.

What's the difference between "subordination" and "dependence"?

"Subordination" implies a hierarchical relationship where one entity is under the authority or control of another. "Dependence", on the other hand, simply means reliance on something or someone, without necessarily implying a power dynamic.

Is it always negative to speak about "subordination"?

Not necessarily. While "subordination" can describe oppressive situations, it can also refer to necessary hierarchical structures in organizations or the "subordination of short-term goals" to achieve long-term objectives.