Meaning
部下 refers to people who work under someone's authority or command, typically in a military, corporate, or organizational hierarchy. It emphasizes the hierarchical relationship between a leader and their direct reports or team members.
Usage
This term is somewhat formal and commonly used in business, military, or organizational contexts. It's used when referring to one's own subordinates or someone else's team members. Native speakers might also use more casual terms like 下属 (xiàshǔ) in everyday conversation, though 部下 carries a slightly more respectful or traditional tone.
Examples
- 01他对部下要求很严格。.He is very strict with his subordinates.
- 02作为经理，她非常关心部下的成长。, .As a manager, she cares deeply about her subordinates' development.
Characters
Measure words
- 个三个部下
- 名五名部下
Common collocations
- 管理部下to manage subordinates
- 部下的工作subordinates' work
- 带领部下to lead subordinates
Antonyms
Origin
The word combines 部 (department/unit) with 下 (under/below), literally meaning 'those under one's department or command.' This construction reflects the hierarchical structure common in traditional Chinese organizations.