Pronunciation: [sʌbˈɔːdɪnət] (IPA) 
The word "subordinate" is spelled with a silent "b" in the middle. The IPA phonetic transcription for this word is /səˈbɔːdənət/. The "u" in the first syllable is pronounced as "uh" and the "o" in the second syllable is pronounced as "aw". The "e" in the final syllable is silent. This word is commonly used to describe a person or a group of people who are in a lower position or rank in an organization.
The adjective "subordinate" refers to something or someone that is lower in rank, position, or importance in relation to another. Subordinate can describe a person, group, organization, or element, indicating their position of lesser authority, control, or status. In a hierarchical structure, subordinates are individuals or entities that report to or are under the direction and oversight of a higher-ranking individual or entity.
In a workplace setting, a subordinate typically refers to an employee who works under the supervision or management of a superior or higher-level manager. They are responsible for carrying out tasks or duties delegated to them by their superiors, adhering to instructions and guidelines provided. Subordinates are expected to follow the direction and decisions of their superiors, promoting cohesiveness, collaboration, and efficient functioning of the organization.
In a military context, subordinates refer to soldiers or units that are under the command of higher-ranking officers, following their instructions and participating in operations as directed. This hierarchical structure ensures a clear chain of command and supports effective coordination and execution of military operations.
The term "subordinate" can also function as a verb, meaning to place or rank something or someone as being of lower importance or authority within a particular group or system. This action of subordination denotes the act of placing under authority, control, or influence of a higher-ranking entity.
• Inferior in nature, rank, or importance; descending in a regular series.
• One who stands in rank or dignity below another; an inferior person.
• To place in order or rank below another; to consider of less value or importance; to make of less value.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "subordinate" comes from the Latin word "subordinatus", which is the past participle of the verb "subordinare". The Latin term is a combination of "sub" meaning "under" and "ordinare" meaning "to order or arrange". Thus, the word "subordinate" originally meant "to place under order or arrange in a lower position". Over time, it took on the meaning of being lower or inferior in rank, position, or importance.
