the rank and file

noun
UK: /ˌræŋk ən ˈfaɪl/
US: /ˌræŋk ən ˈfaɪl/

  1. The ordinary members of an organization, not the leaders

    1. The manager needs to listen to the rank and file more often.
    2. The proposal was unpopular with the rank and file, who felt it did not address their concerns about job security.

  2. The general members of a group, excluding those with high rank or authority

    1. The general addressed the rank and file before the mission.
    2. The officers mixed with the rank and file at the party, creating a relaxed atmosphere.

Frequently Asked Questions

The word "the rank and file" in English means: The ordinary members of an organization, not the leaders, The general members of a group, excluding those with high rank or authority.

The phonetic transcription of "the rank and file" is /ˌræŋk ən ˈfaɪl/ in British English and /ˌræŋk ən ˈfaɪl/ in American English. Click the 🔊 button to hear both pronunciations.

Example usage of "the rank and file": "The manager needs to listen to the rank and file more often.". More examples on the page.