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Relegation

UK //ˌrɛlɪˈɡeɪʃən// US //ˌrɛlɪˈɡeɪʃən// Pronunciation

Definition

The condition of being moved to a lower division in sports.

Listen to definition

In simple words: When a team is moved to a lower division in sports.

Examples

• The team's poor performance led to their relegation from the Premier League.
• Many fans were devastated by the club's relegation to the Championship.
• Relegation can have serious financial consequences for a football club.
• He was worried that their recent losses could mean relegation to a lower tier.
• Teams fighting against relegation often play with increased intensity.

Usage notes

Commonly used in sports contexts, particularly in football (soccer). Not typically used outside of competitive team settings.

Grammar pattern

relegation + object

Memory hint

Think of 'rail' as going down a track; relegation moves teams down a level.

Collocations

• face relegation
• avoid relegation
• fight against relegation
• relegation zone
• relegation battle

Synonyms

• demotion
• downgrade
• fall
• drop
• displacement

Common mistakes

• Confused with 'elevation' which means to go up, instead of down.
• Assuming relegation is only applicable to football; it can apply to other sports too.
• Using relegation in a non-sporting context, which can cause confusion.