Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
to pull rank
idiom
/tuː pʊl ræŋk/
Definition
To exert one’s authority over someone else, especially in a hierarchical or professional setting.
Examples
- During the meeting, the manager decided to pull rank and overruled the team’s suggestions.
- Even though he was new, he tried to pull rank by citing his previous experience.
Meaning
The phrase ‘to pull rank’ means using one’s position of power or superiority to gain an advantage or to make decisions that others must follow.
Synonyms
- exert authority
- exercise power
- use one’s influence
