English vocabulary · B2
Demotion
/dɪˈmoʊʃən/ · n.
A demotion is when someone is moved to a lower job or level. They have less power or pay than before.
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Example sentences
- Her demotion cut her pay and power.
- After the loss, the coach faced demotion.
Word origin and roots
from Latin
- de — down (from Latin)
- mot — move (from Latin)
Synonyms and nuances
- DOWNGRADE — lower in value (Move To A Lower Level)
- REDUCTION — a smaller amount (Make Something Less)
- SETBACK — a step backward (Lose Some Progress)
Words with the same root
mot — move
- move — change place
- motion — the act of moving
- motor — a machine that makes things move
Lesson notes
A demotion is when someone is moved to a lower job or level. They have less power or pay than before.
Related: downgrade, reduction, setback. Use demotion when someone is moved to a lower job or level.
Her demotion cut her pay and power. After the loss, the coach faced demotion.
From Latin. De- means down. Mot- means move. Move down from one level to another. That drop is a demotion.