降职

Using it is quite straightforward. You usually treat it as a verb. You can say someone 'was demoted' using the 被 (bèi) structure. For example, 他被降职了. You can also use it as a noun in formal reports. It is a 'result' word. It describes a change in status that has already happened. Think of it as a heavy word. It carries the weight of a professional setback. Use it when discussing career changes or HR news.

Use this in any work-related conversation. It fits perfectly in a meeting about restructuring. You can use it when gossiping with a trusted work friend. It is also the standard term for news reports about officials. If a manager makes a huge mistake, this word will likely follow. It is the 'correct' term for this specific life event. No need to look for slang; this is the one everyone uses.

Do not use 降职 if someone just has fewer tasks. That is just a change in duties. Do not use it for a pay cut if the title stays the same. Also, avoid using it to tease a friend who is struggling. It is a bit too 'heavy' for a light joke. If someone loses their job entirely, use 解雇 (jiěgù) instead. 降职 implies they are still at the company, just at a lower desk.

In Chinese culture, 'face' (miànzi) is everything. Being 降职 is a significant loss of face. It is often seen as more embarrassing than being fired. If you are fired, you leave. If you are demoted, you have to see your former subordinates every day. Historically, in the imperial era, officials were frequently 'demoted to the provinces.' This was a common way for Emperors to punish people without killing them. Today, it remains a serious blow to one's social standing.

Sometimes you will hear 降级 (jiàngjí). This means 'down-graded.' It is often used for sports teams or technical levels. In very formal documents, you might see 贬职 (biǎnzhí). This has a stronger tone of 'punishment.' In casual chat, people might just say 被降了 (bèi jiàng le). This is the short, punchy version for when you are in a hurry to share the tea.