Word: echelon (noun)

Associations

The word "echelon" often refers to a level or rank in an organization, society, or system. It is commonly used to describe different layers of authority or status.

• In a company, you might hear "upper echelon" to mean the top managers or leaders.
• In the military, "echelon" can mean a formation of troops arranged in steps or levels.
• In social contexts, "echelon" can refer to social classes or groups with different status.

A well-known synonym is "tier." The difference is that "tier" usually refers to levels arranged vertically (like tiers of a cake), while "echelon" often implies a rank or status within a hierarchy.

Substitution

You can replace "echelon" with words like:

• level (e.g., "senior level")
• rank (e.g., "rank of officers")
• tier (e.g., "tier of management")

Each substitution slightly changes the meaning:

• "Level" is general and neutral.
• "Rank" emphasizes position in order or status.
• "Tier" suggests a physical or structured layer.

Deconstruction

The word "echelon" comes from French "échelon," which means "rung of a ladder." The root is related to "échelle," meaning "ladder." This origin helps explain why the word means a step or level in a hierarchy.

Inquiry

• Can you think of a situation at school or work where people are divided into different echelons?
• How would you describe your own position in a group using the word "echelon"?
• Why do you think people use the word "echelon" instead of just "level" or "rank"? What feeling or idea does it add?