C2idiomwork
the rank and file
USUK
the ordinary members of an organisation, as opposed to its leaders
Used as a group noun, usually with 'the': 'the rank and file of the party'. It comes from the army (ordinary soldiers). As an adjective: 'rank-and-file members'.
In context
The union leaders agreed to the deal, but the rank and file voted it down.
Managers at the factory rarely listen to the concerns of the rank and file.
More idioms about work
- a baptism of firea very difficult first experience of a new job or activity
- a cushy joba job that is easy and pleasant but still pays well
- a dead-end joba job with no chance of promotion or of learning anything new
- a jack of all tradesa person who can do many different kinds of work fairly well
- a labour of lovehard work that you do because you enjoy it or care about it, not for money