How Do You Spell RANK AND FILE?

Pronunciation: [ɹˈaŋk and fˈa͡ɪl] (IPA)

The phrase "rank and file" refers to the ordinary, non-officer members of a group. It is spelled as "ræŋk ənd faɪl" in IPA (International Phonetic Alphabet). The first syllable "ræŋk" sounds like "rang" without the "g" and is pronounced with a short "a" sound. The second syllable "ənd" sounds like "uhnd" and the final syllable "faɪl" is pronounced as "file" with a long "i" sound. This phrase is frequently used in a military context but has also become common in other industries and organizations.

RANK AND FILE Meaning and Definition

1. Rank and file is an idiomatic expression used to refer to the lower-level members of an organization, particularly those who hold no official position of authority or prominence within the organization's hierarchy.

   The term originated in military contexts, where "rank" refers to the hierarchical position or grade within the armed forces, while "file" denotes the formation of soldiers in a straight line. Thus, the phrase "rank and file" signifies the ordinary soldiers or foot soldiers who make up the main body of a military force, as opposed to the officers or leaders.

   Over time, the term has been extended beyond its military usage to describe the ordinary members of any organization, such as political parties, trade unions, or corporations. In this broader sense, the rank and file represent the majority of members who carry out the everyday tasks, duties, and responsibilities of the organization. They typically have limited decision-making power and do not hold positions of authority or influence. Instead, they follow the directions and policies determined by their leaders or management.

   As a phrase, "rank and file" often implies solidarity and collective action. It highlights the common interests and concerns shared by the ordinary members of an organization, emphasizing their role in collectively advancing the goals and objectives of the group. Their collective voice and actions are often seen as powerful agents for change or reform within the organization.

Common Misspellings for RANK AND FILE

• eank and file
• dank and file
• fank and file
• tank and file
• 5ank and file
• 4ank and file
• rznk and file
• rsnk and file
• rwnk and file
• rqnk and file
• rabk and file
• ramk and file
• rajk and file
• rahk and file
• ranj and file
• ranm and file
• ranl and file
• rano and file
• rani and file

Idioms with the word RANK AND FILE

• the rank and file The idiom "the rank and file" refers to the ordinary, average members of a group, organization, or society who are not in positions of leadership or authority. It typically denotes the bulk, majority, or regular members of a group, rather than the top-level decision-makers. The term may also imply a sense of collective identity or unity among these members.
• rank and file The idiom "rank and file" refers to the ordinary members of a group or organization, as opposed to its leaders or more prominent members. It can also refer to the overall membership of a group or organization, specifically excluding its leadership.