pull rank

Idioms  

1. 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]

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Example Sentences

Here, even the Bravo nepo babies don’t try to pull rank.

From Salon • Aug. 2, 2025

Aides laughed off the suggestion Mr. McConnell would try to pull rank on Mrs. Collins and wrest the position away from her at this point.

From Washington Times • Nov. 21, 2022

So does Alex’s ability, even at his wildest, to pull rank and announce that he is a scion of a trustee, and an important lawyer to boot.

From New York Times • Aug. 29, 2012

It’s one thing to pull rank on a cowering lizard like Pete Campbell.

From Slate • May 14, 2012

"Didn't even have to pull rank," he said.

From Star Surgeon by Nourse, Alan Edward