Subordinately Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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subordinately

[səˈbɔːrdɪnətli ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Adverb}

in a subordinate manner

In a position of less power or authority compared to someone else; in a way that is dependent on or under the control of someone or something else.

Synonyms

dependently, inferiorly, submissively.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
subordinately	Refers to acting in a lower or secondary position, often in a structured or hierarchical organization. Similar to 'subordinately.' The junior officer worked subordinately under the senior commander. Employees at the entry level often operate subordinately to supervisors.
submissively	Used to describe an attitude or behavior that is willing to obey someone else without resistance. This can be in personal relationships or hierarchical structures. The dog behaved submissively around its owner. She nodded submissively to her boss's demands.
inferiorly	Used in contexts where one person or thing is viewed as less important, effective, or of lower quality. This term often has a negative connotation. He performed inferiorly compared to his classmates. The product was rated inferiorly by the users.
dependently	Used when someone or something relies on another person or thing for support or resources. This word often appears in discussions about relationships or care. The child slept dependently in his mother's arms. The small business operated dependently on funds from investors.

Examples of usage

He always spoke subordinately to his boss.
She subordinately followed the instructions given to her.
The country was subordinately governed by a foreign power.
The employee was subordinately working under the supervision of his manager.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Grammar

In sentence structure, 'subordinately' often describes a clause that gives additional information but is not essential to the main idea.
Subordinating conjunctions (like 'because', 'although') create subordinate clauses, which are linked to the main clause to add context.
Understanding how to use subordinately can enhance writing by showing relationships between ideas.

Management and Leadership

In organizational structures, subordinates are employees who report to higher-level managers.
Effective leadership involves motivating subordinates to help the organization meet its goals.
Confusing or neglecting the needs of subordinates can lead to poor job satisfaction and high turnover.

Philosophy

The concept of subordinateness can raise questions about hierarchy and ethics in social structures.
Philosophers debate the moral implications of subordinate and dominant relationships in society.
Power dynamics related to subordinateness can influence group behavior and decision-making.

Education

In education, understanding content subordinately helps students learn how concepts fit into larger frameworks.
Teachers often use subordinately structured lessons to gradually introduce new topics.
Subordinate learning outcomes can help assess student understanding and progress within a broader curriculum.

Origin of 'subordinately'

Main points about word origin

The word comes from the Latin 'subordinatus', meaning 'placed under'.
It combines 'sub', meaning 'under', and 'ordinare', meaning 'to arrange'.
The term has been used in English since the early 15th century.

The word 'subordinately' is derived from the word 'subordinate', which comes from the Latin word 'subordinatus', meaning 'placed in a lower order'. The concept of subordination has been present in various forms throughout history, often related to power structures and hierarchies.