chain of command

NOUN

apparatus

Synonyms

STRONGEST

bureaucracy hierarchy network structure

STRONG

setup

NOUN

hierarchy

Synonyms

STRONGEST

pecking order ranking

STRONG

echelons grouping position pyramid scale

WEAK

due order placing

NOUN

pecking order

Synonyms

STRONGEST

food chain hierarchy power structure social structure

WEAK

class structure corporate ladder dominance due order echelons grouping line of dominance order placing position ranking scale social hierarchy social ladder social pyramid social stratification

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Cases that merit enhanced scrutiny are moved up the chain of command.

From Los Angeles Times • May 5, 2026

The procedure seems obvious now, but it established a chain of command that had previously varied from venue to venue.

From BBC • Mar. 21, 2026

“The military will not allow a vendor to insert itself into the chain of command by restricting the lawful use of a critical capability and put our warfighters at risk.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 13, 2026

Firefighters said they adhered to the LAFD’s strict chain of command and did not question higher-ups, while those in charge had fuzzy memories or shifted responsibility to others.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 11, 2026

Jahrling, a civilian, had decided to notify the military chain of command.

From "The Hot Zone" by Richard Preston

chain of command

Example Sentences

Related Words