ENGLISH
REFERENCE

subordinates

n. plural-only
C1 Advanced US //səˈbɔɹdəˌneɪts// sub·or·di·nates

n. people who have a lower rank or position than someone else in an organization. In a job, your subordinates are the people who work for you and follow your instructions.

n. individuals who are lower in rank or position within a hierarchical structure. Refers to those under the authority or control of another person, typically in a professional or military context.


SIMPLE

A good manager listens to the ideas of their subordinates.

CONTEXTUAL

The colonel expected his subordinates to follow every order without hesitation during the training exercise.

COMPLEX

Effective leadership requires a delicate balance between maintaining authority over subordinates and fostering an environment where they feel comfortable offering constructive feedback.

Synonyms
Usage

Usually used in the plural form to refer to a group of employees or lower-ranking members.

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