Relegates

To **relegate** is to assign or dismiss something or someone to a lower or less important position, rank, or class. It implies a demotion, downgrading, or banishment, whether literal or figurative. This can involve shifting individuals to a less desirable role, placing subjects in a less significant category, or transferring responsibilities to a subordinate position. The act of relegating often reflects a judgment about relative importance or a decision based on assessment. The outcome typically involves a loss of standing or influence, underscoring a shift in hierarchy or priority. The process can affect authority, value, or access, thus altering the status quo within a system.

Relegates meaning with examples

• After consistent poor performance, the coach relegates the star player to the bench, assigning him a reduced role in upcoming games. This decision significantly impacted the player's playing time and team's dynamics. The player feels sidelined and less valued.
• Due to budget cuts, the company relegates the marketing department's budget to a smaller amount, redirecting the larger investments to R&D. Marketing activities will be significantly reduced until further notice. This resulted in a considerable amount of consternation within the marketing department.
• The committee relegates the controversial proposal to the archives, effectively shelving it indefinitely to prevent further debate and potential repercussions. This move was unpopular with the proposal's champions. The proposal received very little discussion after that point.
• In a corporate restructuring, the new CEO relegates several senior executives to advisory positions with reduced responsibilities, removing them from decision-making roles. The people felt this would undermine their importance and influence within the firm.