Hierarchy: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when referring to a system where members are ranked according to their levels of power or importance. Commonly used in organizational, social, or biological contexts.

• In many companies, there is a clear hierarchy that defines the levels of authority
• The animal kingdom has a complex hierarchy with predators at the top

Refers to the arrangement or organization of something, not necessarily implying a level of authority or ranking. It is more about how parts are organized together.

• The structure of the essay was well-organized
• We need to improve the structure of our project timelines

Typically used when discussing lists or categories where someone or something is placed in order based on an evaluation of quality, performance, or other criteria. Often used in sports, education, and business.

• The ranking of tennis players changes regularly based on their performance
• Our company's ranking in the industry has improved this quarter

Often used in an informal context to describe the natural or established order of people or things. It implies a ranking where each person or thing knows their place. This term sometimes has a slightly negative or competitive connotation.

• High school cliques often have a clear pecking order
• In the office, the pecking order determines who gets the best parking spots