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.
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.