What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
relegated
Example
After the poor performance, the manager was relegated to a lower position. [relegated: verb]
Example
The team was relegated to the second division after losing the final game. [relegated: past participle]
demote
Example
The employee was demoted to an entry-level position due to poor performance. [demoted: verb]
Example
The sergeant was demoted to a private for disobeying orders. [demoted: past participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Demote is more commonly used than relegate in everyday language, especially in professional or work-related contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between relegated and demote?
Demote is more formal than relegate, which is often used in sports contexts and can be more casual or informal.