chain of command

Meaning

1. 1nouncountable

   The system in an organization by which each person is controlled by and reports to a higher-ranking person.

   Grammar: Usually singular with 'the' or a possessive: the chain of command, follow the chain of command. Plural: chains of command.

   Patterns

   • the chain of command
   • follow the chain of command
   • go through the chain of command
   • break the chain of command

   In the army, you must respect the chain of command.

   If you have a problem, raise it through the chain of command.

   The manager was accused of ignoring the company's chain of command.

Word forms

Common combinations

follow the chain of command

Soldiers are trained to follow the chain of command.

go through the chain of command

Complaints should go through the chain of command.

break the chain of command

She broke the chain of command by emailing the CEO directly.

military chain of command

The military chain of command is strictly organized.

respect the chain of command

New employees quickly learn to respect the chain of command.

Synonyms and how they differ

hierarchy

A broader term for any system of levels or ranks; chain of command specifically emphasizes who gives orders to whom.

line of authority

Similar meaning, but more formal and less common in everyday speech.

pecking order

Informal; describes social ranking rather than official authority to give orders.

Word family

command noun

An order, or the authority to give orders.

command verb

To order someone to do something, or to be in charge of a group.

commander noun

A person in charge of a military group.

Commonly confused: chain of command or command chain?

Practice

Make it your own

Write a sentence using “chain of command”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.

Explore more words