pulls rank
Uses position's power
To pull rank is to use one's higher position or authority to get what you want, especially when it feels unfair or unnecessary: I hate when the manager pulls rank just to get the better parking spot.
The phrase comes from military hierarchy, where rank determines who gives orders.
It implies leveraging status rather than earning cooperation.
- power playStrategic leverage attempt
- assertivenessConfident self-expression quality
- commandAuthoritative instruction given
- top brassSenior leadership collectively
- disputeVerbal clash over differences
confrontation · chain of command · seniority · hierarchy · entitlement · deference · power structure · pecking order · leadership · manipulation · playing hardball · coercion · dominance · escalation · influence · jurisdiction · governance · abuse of authority