What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
demotion
Example
After the scandal, he was demoted from manager to assistant. [demoted: past tense]
Example
The demotion was a result of his poor performance and lack of leadership skills. [demotion: noun]
downgrade
Example
The company's credit rating was downgraded due to its financial instability. [downgraded: past participle]
Example
The hotel room was a downgrade from what we had expected. [downgrade: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Demotion is more commonly used in a professional context, especially in the workplace, while downgrade is more versatile and can be used in various contexts, including personal and professional.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between demotion and downgrade?
Demotion is more formal and serious compared to downgrade, which can be used in a more casual or informal tone.