What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
subordinate
Example
As a manager, it's important to communicate effectively with your subordinates. [subordinates: noun]
Example
The CEO made a decision that subordinated the interests of the employees to those of the shareholders. [subordinated: verb]
lower
Example
The basement is located on the lower level of the building. [lower: adjective]
Example
The company lowered its prices to attract more customers. [lowered: verb]
Example
People from lower income households often face greater financial challenges. [lower: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Lower is more commonly used than subordinate in everyday language. Lower is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while subordinate is less common and typically used in professional or hierarchical settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between subordinate and lower?
Subordinate is generally considered more formal than lower. It is often used in professional or hierarchical settings, while lower can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
