Which term means to put someone into a lesser status or lower position?

• A. Domination
• B. Gender stereotyping
• C. Subordination
• D. Human rights violation

Answer: (C)

Subordination is the act of placing someone in a lower status or position within a hierarchy. It describes a relationship where one person is expected to defer to another, often with less power, authority, or decision-making ability.

This term fits best because it directly names the outcome—being in a lesser position—rather than focusing on the act of controlling (domination), beliefs about how people should behave (gender stereotyping), or violations of rights in a broad sense (human rights violation). Domination involves power and control, which can lead to subordination but is not the specific label for the act of lowering someone’s status. Gender stereotyping deals with stereotypes about gender roles, not the explicit placement of someone in a lower position. A human rights violation covers a wide range of infringements, not specifically the status difference described here.