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hierarchy

[ˈhaɪərɑːrki]

hierarchy Definition

a system or organization in which people or groups are ranked one above the other according to status or authority.

Using hierarchy: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "hierarchy" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The company has a strict hierarchy, with the CEO at the top.

  • Example

    In many animal societies, there is a clear hierarchy among members.

  • Example

    The military operates on a strict hierarchy, with orders coming from the top down.

hierarchy Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for hierarchy

Antonyms for hierarchy

Idioms Using hierarchy

  • to work one's way up through the ranks of an organization or social group

    Example

    He started as an intern and worked his way up the hierarchy to become CEO.

  • to challenge or dismantle an established system of ranking or authority

    Example

    The protesters were trying to break down the hierarchy and create a more equal society.

  • to reduce the number of levels in a system of ranking or authority

    Example

    The company decided to flatten the hierarchy and eliminate several layers of management.

Phrases with hierarchy

  • social hierarchy

    a system of ranking people in a society based on their social status or class

    Example

    The social hierarchy of medieval Europe was rigid and hierarchical.

  • a system of ranking people or groups based on their level of power or influence

    Example

    The power hierarchy in the country is dominated by a few wealthy families.

  • a system of ranking employees in a company based on their job title or position

    Example

    The corporate hierarchy at the company is very flat, with only a few levels of management.

Origins of hierarchy

from Greek 'hierarkhia', meaning 'rule of a high priest'

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Summary: hierarchy in Brief

Hierarchy [ˈhaɪərɑːrki] refers to a system or organization in which people or groups are ranked according to status or authority. It is prevalent in various contexts, such as companies, animal societies, and military operations. Examples include 'The company has a strict hierarchy, with the CEO at the top.' and 'The military operates on a strict hierarchy, with orders coming from the top down.' Idioms like 'climb the hierarchy' and 'flatten the hierarchy' describe upward mobility and reduction of levels, respectively.