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pull rank

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pull rank (on someone)

Fig. to assert one's rank, authority, or position over someone when making a request or giving an order. Don't pull rank on me! I don't have to do what you say! When she couldn't get her way politely, she pulled rank and really got some action.

See also: pull, rank

pull rank

to use the power of your job or position to make someone do what you want Some of the seniors in our school pull rank on the younger kids and force them to run errands for them.

See also: pull, rank

pull rank

to use the power that your position gives you over someone in order to make them do what you want (often + on ) He doesn't have the authority to pull rank on me any more. She was boss of forty or more people but, to her credit, she never once pulled rank.

See also: pull, rank

pull rank

Use one's higher status to compel obedience or obtain privileges, as in She hated pulling rank in the office, but sometimes it was necessary. This term comes from the military. [c. 1920]

See also: pull, rank