English Reference
Noun

demotion

n. C / U
B2 Upper Intermediate US /dɪˈmoʊʃən/ UK /dɪmˈəʊʃən/ de·mo·tion UK spelling demotions

n.a move to a lower rank or position in a company. This usually means you have less responsibility and often earn less money.

n.a reduction in rank, status, or position within an organization. Often results in a decrease in salary or authority.


SIMPLE

He was surprised by the sudden demotion after years of service.

CONTEXTUAL

The manager's demotion was a shock to the team, as he had been the most experienced person in the department.

COMPLEX

While the official announcement cited budget constraints, many employees suspected the demotion was a strategic move to weaken the union's leadership before the next round of negotiations.

There was concern over whether the 28-year-old would accept an immediate demotion.

The Guardian· 29 Aug 2026
This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Occasional
Updated