What does “Pecking order” mean?
"Pecking order" means the hierarchy or ranking system within a group or organization, where individuals are placed in order of their power or authority.
What context can I use the in?
Example
In the military, there is a clear pecking order with the highest-ranking officers at the top.
Example
The CEO is at the top of the company's pecking order, followed by the executive team.
Example
Within the wolf pack, there is a strict pecking order with the alpha wolf at the top
Is “Pecking order” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Pecking order” 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 “Pecking order” effectively in context?
You can use "Pecking Order" to describe the hierarchical structure within a group or organization. It emphasizes the ranking of individuals based on their power or authority. For example, if you're discussing a company's management structure, you might say, 'In this company, the CEO is at the top of the pecking order, followed by the executive team.'
- 1Workplace
In the military, there is a clear pecking order with the highest-ranking officers at the top.
- 2Corporate
The CEO is at the top of the company's pecking order, followed by the executive team.
- 3Animal Kingdom
Within the wolf pack, there is a strict pecking order with the alpha wolf at the top.
Similar phrases to “Pecking order”:
A system or organization in which people or groups are ranked according to their status or authority
Example
The corporate hierarchy determines the decision-making process.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Pecking order” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Pecking Order" can be traced back to observations of chickens and other birds. It refers to the hierarchical system within a group or organization, where individuals are ranked based on their power or authority. The term 'pecking order' comes from the behavior of chickens, where they establish dominance by pecking each other.
Is “Pecking order” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Pecking Order" is a commonly used expression in everyday conversation. It is often used to describe the hierarchical structure within various contexts, such as workplaces, organizations, and even animal groups.
What tone does “Pecking order” have?
"Pecking Order" conveys a neutral tone. It is a descriptive term used to explain the ranking system within a group or organization. It does not carry any positive or negative connotations.
Can “Pecking order” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "Pecking Order" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is a widely understood expression that describes the hierarchical structure within a group or organization. You can use it in casual conversations with friends or colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as presentations or professional discussions.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'In this company, the CEO is at the top of the pecking order.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'It's all about the pecking order.' to imply the importance of hierarchy.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- hierarchy
- ranking system
- order of precedence
- power structure
- chain of command
Antonyms
- equality
- non-hierarchical
- flat organization
- collaborative structure
