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Subaltern Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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subaltern

[ˈsʌbəltən ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

military

A subordinate or junior officer in the armed forces.

Synonyms

ensign, junior officer, lieutenant.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
subaltern

Commonly used in a military setting to refer to any officer below the rank of captain, it covers various junior officer roles. This term can sometimes carry a connotation of being lower in the hierarchy.

  • The subaltern received new orders from the captain.
  • As a subaltern, he had to follow the instructions given by his superiors.
junior officer

A broad term that can be used to describe any officer in the lower ranks of the military hierarchy. It doesn't specify a particular branch and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.

  • The junior officer took detailed notes during the briefing.
  • As a junior officer, he knew he had much to learn from his senior counterparts.
lieutenant

A specific military rank that falls between ensign and captain (or equivalent), used widely across different branches of armed forces. It usually indicates a more experienced officer compared to an ensign or other junior officers.

  • Lieutenant Smith was put in charge of the new recruits.
  • After several years of service, she was promoted to lieutenant.
ensign

Primarily used in naval contexts to denote the lowest rank of commissioned officers. It is specific to naval forces and indicates fresh, inexperienced officers.

  • The ensign was eager to prove himself on his first mission.
  • After graduating from the naval academy, she was commissioned as an ensign.

Examples of usage

  • He was just a subaltern, but he showed great leadership skills.
  • The subaltern followed the orders given by his superior officer.
Context #2 | Noun

historical

A junior assistant or representative, especially in a colonial context.

Synonyms

assistant, deputy, representative.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
subaltern

In broader socio-political discussions, subaltern refers to populations or groups that are socially, politically, and geographically outside of the hegemonic power structure. This usage carries an implication of marginalization or being oppressed.

  • The voices of the subaltern communities are often underrepresented in mainstream media
assistant

Commonly used in general settings where someone helps or supports another person. This word does not have negative connotations and can be used in both professional and casual environments.

  • Sarah was hired as an assistant to the project manager
representative

Appropriate in contexts where someone is acting or speaking on behalf of others, such as in political, business, or customer service settings.

  • The representative of the company addressed the concerns of the customers
deputy

Often used in a professional or administrative context where someone acts with the authority of another person in their absence, such as a deputy mayor or deputy director.

  • The deputy sheriff took control of the situation until the sheriff arrived

Examples of usage

  • The subaltern was responsible for maintaining communication between the colonizers and the local population.
  • The subaltern played a crucial role in the administration of the colony.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Studies

  • In postcolonial studies, 'subaltern' identifies groups that are socially, politically, and geographically outside the power structure.
  • Scholar Gayatri Chakravorty Spivak highlighted the struggle of the subaltern to have their voices heard.

Literature

  • The concept appears in the works of authors like Antonio Gramsci, who explored power dynamics and social classes.
  • In literature, subaltern characters often represent marginalized voices and perspectives, enriching narratives.

Social Theory

  • Mainstream theories often overlook the experiences of the subaltern, highlighting the need for diverse viewpoints.
  • Subaltern studies challenge dominant historical narratives by focusing on the oppressed and their contributions.

Political Context

  • Movements advocating for the rights of the subaltern emphasize justice, equality, and representation in governance.
  • The term relates to broader discussions on colonialism and globalization, affecting how we view power inequalities.

Origin of 'subaltern'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'subaltern' comes from Latin roots: 'sub' meaning 'under' and 'alternus' meaning 'other'.
  • Originally used in military contexts to refer to lower-ranking officers, it expanded to social theory.

The word 'subaltern' originated from the Latin word 'subalternus' meaning 'inferior'. It was first used in English in the early 17th century to refer to a junior officer in the military. Over time, its usage expanded to include junior assistants or representatives in various contexts. The term gained prominence during the colonial era to describe the role of subordinate officials in colonial administration.

See also: alter, alterably, alteration, alterations, altercation, altered, alterer, altering, alternating, inalterably, unalterable, unaltered.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,976, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.