lance corporal
Definition
- Noun:
- A military rank: In the United States Marine Corps and some other armed forces, a "lance corporal" is an enlisted rank. It is above the rank of private first class and below the rank of corporal. A lance corporal typically leads a small team or fireteam.
Usage
- The term "lance corporal" is used as a title before a surname or as a term of address.
- It is a specific rank within a military hierarchy, not a general term for any low-ranking soldier.
Examples
- Noun:
- The lance corporal was responsible for the discipline and training of three new privates.
- After his promotion, he was addressed as Lance Corporal Smith.
- The unit needed more experienced lance corporals to serve as team leaders.
Advanced Usage
- Acting lance corporal: In some forces, a marine may be appointed to perform the duties of a lance corporal before officially holding the rank.
- He served as an acting lance corporal for six months before receiving the official promotion.
Variants and Related Words
- Corporal (noun): The next higher enlisted rank, with more responsibility.
- The corporal was in charge of two fireteams led by lance corporals.
- Private First Class (noun): The enlisted rank directly below lance corporal.
- He was promoted from private first class to lance corporal.
Synonyms
- Junior non-commissioned officer (NCO): A broader category for enlisted ranks with leadership duties, which includes lance corporal.
- Team leader: A descriptive term for one of the primary roles of a lance corporal.
Related Phrases
- To be promoted to lance corporal: To advance to this rank.
- She worked hard to be promoted to lance corporal.
- To hold the rank of lance corporal: To have this specific military grade.
- He held the rank of lance corporal for two years.
Noun
-
an enlisted man in the marine corps ranking above a private first class and below a corporal
