What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
demotion
Example
After the scandal, the CEO faced demotion to a lower position. [demotion: noun]
Example
The employee was demoted for not meeting the company's expectations. [demoted: past participle]
relegation
Example
The football team faced relegation after losing several games. [relegation: noun]
Example
The intern felt like she was relegated to doing menial tasks. [relegated: past participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Demotion is a more common word than relegation in everyday language, as it is used in a wider range of contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between demotion and relegation?
Both demotion and relegation are formal words that are typically used in professional or organizational settings.