rank and file

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.

Regrown forests, especially with monoculture commercial saplings planted rank and file, may never achieve the splendid complexity of virgin forests.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 17, 2026

Doyle said part of the secretary’s job is to set the tone for the agency so the rank and file know what is expected of them.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 27, 2026

An orderly transition would require assistance from the rank and file.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 22, 2026

But the rank and file, the “MAHA moms,” can be divided into two broad categories, which we’ll call the individualists and the structuralists.

From Slate • Feb. 21, 2026

Although the rank and file were cramped underground, the sentries had two large, roomy burrows to themselves, while each officer had a private burrow.

From "Watership Down: A Novel" by Richard Adams