know one's place
Respect social hierarchy
To know one's place is to accept one's position in a social hierarchy and behave accordingly—not overstepping, not presuming equality with those above.
The phrase often carries critical undertones, implying someone is being reminded to stay subordinate: She was told to know her place.
It can also describe self-aware deference: He knew his place and didn't speak up at meetings.
- self-perceptionHow one views oneself
- rankPosition in hierarchy
- protocolPrescribed conduct rules
- statusOne's relative position
- subordinationLower position in hierarchy
dominance · boundaries · unwritten rules · respect · custom · humility · obedience · yes sir · propriety · deference · bow down · self-concept · position · caste · manners · introspection · toe the line · decorum
know one's placeuppity
Arrogantly self-important
put on airs · step out of line · throw one's weight around · rebel · talk back
know one's placeoverstep
Exceed proper limits
overreach · take liberties · push one's luck · cross the line · step out of line
know one's placebe ambitious
Desire significant achievement
aim high · punch above one's weight · social climbing · reach for the stars · aspire
know, knows, known, knowing, knowingly, knowledge, knowledgeable, unknowing, unknowingly