established order
The existing system
The established order is the existing system of power, authority, and social arrangements in a society or institution.
The phrase typically appears in discussions of those who challenge or defend it: Revolutionaries sought to overthrow the established order.
It carries connotations of entrenched hierarchy and resistance to change—something that benefits those already in positions of influence.
- status quoExisting condition of affairs
- business as usualContinuation of normal routine
- authorityPower to enforce obedience
- normsExpected behavioral standards
- conventionAgreed standard of behavior
the way things are · hierarchy · chain of command · power structure · vested interests · system · powers that be · tradition · uniform · orthodoxy · ancien régime · inertia · conservatism · permanence · bureaucracy · hegemony · monarchy · constitution
established orderrevolution
Violent governmental overthrow
upheaval · insurrection · revolt · rebellion · coup
established orderanarchy
Disorder from absent authority
chaos · disorder · lawlessness · subversion · dissent
established orderparadigm shift
Wholesale replacement of frameworks
tabula rasa · clean slate · utopian vision · fresh start · radical reform
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