subordinate
Definitions
A person of lower rank or position; someone who works under another
下属，下级
Lower in rank; of less importance; secondary
下级的；从属的，次要的
To treat as less important than something else
使从属于，使次要
Root Breakdown
Root-derivedsub- (under) + ordin- (rank, order) + -ate = 'placed under in the order.' A subordinate sits below you in the ranking. In grammar a subordinate clause literally hangs beneath the main clause, unable to stand on its own — the same 'lower in the order' idea applied to sentences.
Root order still carries 34 more wordsUsage Guide
- Pronunciation/stress shift: noun & adjective end in a weak /ət/ (sub-OR-di-nət); the verb 'to subordinate' ends in a full /eɪt/.
- subordinate to: a clause subordinate to the main one; subordinate X to Y (rank X below Y).
- Register: 'subordinate' (n.) is formal/managerial; in casual speech people say junior, underling, or 'people who report to me.'
Example Sentences
- 1.
A good manager listens to subordinates instead of just giving orders.
- 2.
In this clause, the verb plays a subordinate role to the main idea.
- 3.
He refused to subordinate his principles to short-term profit.
- 4.
Her concerns were treated as subordinate to the company's image.
Easily Confused
subordinate vs inferior — both mean 'lower,' but subordinate is neutral, about rank in a structure (your subordinate at work). inferior judges quality or worth (an inferior product) and is often negative. A subordinate is simply below you; an inferior thing is worse.