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Demote - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Demote means to lower someone’s rank, position, or status, often as a disciplinary action or due to poor performance. It is the opposite of promote. For example, a manager might be demoted to an assistant role.

demote

/dɪˈmoʊt/ /dɪˈməʊt/

Definition:

To lower someone's rank or position, often as a punishment or due to poor performance.

Synonyms:

downgrade, relegate, declass, bust

Part of Speech:

verb

Antonyms:

promote, elevate, advance

Common Collocations:

demote an employee, demote to a lower rank, demote due to misconduct

Derivatives:

demotion, demoted, demoting

Usage Tips:

Use "demote" when referring to lowering someone's official position; often implies a negative reason for the change.

Common Phrases:

get demoted, demote in rank, face demotion

Etymology:

From Latin "demovere," meaning "to move down," combining "de-" (down) and "movere" (to move).

Examples:

  • 1. The manager decided to demote him after repeated mistakes.
  • 2. She was demoted from team leader to a regular member.
  • 3. If you underperform, they might demote you next quarter.
  • 4. He felt embarrassed after being demoted in front of his colleagues.

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