At the bottom of the totem pole: Learn what the means through example!

What does “At the bottom of the totem pole” mean?

"At the bottom of the totem pole" means being at the lowest position or rank.

What context can I use the in?

Example

I started at the company as an intern, so I was definitely at the bottom of the totem pole.

Example

The new employees are always at the bottom of the totem pole until they prove themselves.

Example

In the military, the privates are at the bottom of the totem pole in terms of rank

Is “At the bottom of the totem pole” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“At the bottom of the totem pole” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.

How would I use “At the bottom of the totem pole” effectively in context?

You can use "At the bottom of the totem pole" to describe someone or something being at the lowest position or rank in a hierarchy. It emphasizes the idea of being the least important or having the least authority. For example, if you're talking about starting a new job, you might say, 'I started at the company as an intern, so I was definitely "at the bottom of the totem pole".'

• 1. Work

  The new employees are always at the bottom of the totem pole until they prove themselves.

• 2. Military

  In the military, the privates are at the bottom of the totem pole in terms of rank.

• 3. Social Hierarchy

  In high school, freshmen are usually at the bottom of the totem pole in terms of seniority.

Similar phrases to “At the bottom of the totem pole”:

Low man on the totem pole

Someone who has the least authority or importance in a group or organization

Example

As the newest member of the team, she was the low man on the totem pole.

Under the thumb

Being under someone's control or influence

Example

He felt like he was under the thumb of his demanding boss.

In the pecking order

Being ranked or positioned in a hierarchy

Example

As the team captain, she was at the top of the pecking order.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “At the bottom of the totem pole” come from?

The origin of the phrase "At the bottom of the totem pole" is unknown.

Is “At the bottom of the totem pole” common in everyday conversation?

Yes, "At the bottom of the totem pole" is a commonly used idiom in everyday conversation. It's often used to describe someone's position or rank in a hierarchy, emphasizing their lack of authority or importance.

What tone does “At the bottom of the totem pole” have?

"At the bottom of the totem pole" conveys a tone of insignificance or low status. It's often used to express a sense of being at the lowest level in a hierarchy.

Can “At the bottom of the totem pole” be used in informal and formal settings?

Yes, "At the bottom of the totem pole" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that describes a hierarchical position. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as presentations, meetings, or professional correspondence.

Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?

It's commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'She started as an intern and was at the bottom of the totem pole.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'I'm still at the bottom of the totem pole!' to imply one's low position in a hierarchy.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

• underling
• least important
• lowest rank
• bottom rung
• last in line

Antonyms

• at the top of the totem pole
• in a position of authority
• high-ranking
• top-tier