Low on the totem pole Meaning in English
expression
Definition
To be in a position with little power, importance, or authority, especially in a job or organization.
Usage & Nuances
This is an informal idiom mainly for workplace status, but also used more generally for any hierarchy. You might say someone is 'low on the totem pole' if they are new, junior, or have little influence. You can use it self-deprecatingly or to describe others; avoid using as a direct description of Indigenous culture.
Example Sentences
As a new employee, I am low on the totem pole.
basic
Interns are usually low on the totem pole at big companies.
basic
She doesn't make big decisions because she's low on the totem pole.
basic
After the reorganization, I found myself low on the totem pole again.
natural
You have to do the boring jobs when you’re low on the totem pole.
natural
Even though I'm low on the totem pole, I still try to make a difference.
natural