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

It combines three special investigations bureaus from each of the three military branches into one, removing them from any direct chain of command.

From BBC • Mar. 18, 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

But with its government’s chain of command largely intact External link, Iran retains both the capability and the demonstrated willingness to target Gulf energy infrastructure and maritime traffic.

From Barron's • Mar. 3, 2026

The Inca Empire also had a centralized political organization, but that actually worked to its disadvantage, because Pizarro seized the Inca chain of command intact by capturing Atahuallpa.

From "Guns, Germs, and Steel: The Fates of Human Societies" by Jared M. Diamond

chain of command

Example Sentences

Related Words