Word: Kick Upstairs
Part of Speech: Verb (phrasal verb)
Meaning: "Kick upstairs" means to give someone a promotion to a higher position, usually in a way that suggests the person is being moved away from their current responsibilities. It can also imply that the person may not be fully qualified for the new position or that the promotion is a way to remove them from a situation.
Usage Instructions: You can use "kick upstairs" when discussing promotions in a workplace context, especially when the promotion feels more like a way to sidestep someone's current role rather than a true recognition of their skills.
Example Sentence: "John was kicked upstairs when a replacement was hired, meaning he was promoted to a higher position, but it also meant he would no longer be involved in the day-to-day operations."
Advanced Usage: In some contexts, "kick upstairs" can have a slightly negative connotation, suggesting that the promotion is not entirely deserved or that it serves as a way to remove someone from a problem rather than rewarding them for their achievements.
Word Variants: The phrase itself does not have direct variants, but you might encounter related terms like "promotion," "advance," or "move up."
Different Meaning: While "kick upstairs" primarily refers to promotions, it can also imply shifting someone to a role where they are less effective or less involved, often as a way to manage personnel issues.
Synonyms: - Promote - Elevate - Advance - Move up
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs: - Move up the ladder: This is similar in meaning but does not carry the same connotation of being moved away from responsibilities. - Climb the corporate ladder: This refers to advancing in one’s career but usually implies a more positive connotation.