# demotion

/dɪˈmoʊʃən/ (US) · /dɪmˈəʊʃən/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/demotion
Updated: 2026-05-30

## Definition

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

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

## Examples

- He was surprised by the sudden demotion after years of service.
- The manager's demotion was a shock to the team, as he had been the most experienced person in the department.
- 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.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.