lance-sergeant

lance-sergeant

A lance-sergeant inspects the soldiers in formation.

Definition
  1. Noun:
    • Military rank: A "lance-sergeant" is a non-commissioned officer rank in the British Army, equivalent to a corporal but holding the authority and responsibilities of a sergeant. This rank is typically used in certain regiments, such as the Foot Guards and the Royal Artillery, as an appointment rather than a permanent rank.
Usage Examples
  • (He received the rank of lance-sergeant, acting with a sergeant's duties.)
  • (The soldier with the rank of lance-sergeant led the group.)
Advanced Usage

  • "to hold the rank of lance-sergeant": to occupy this specific non-commissioned officer position.

    • After five years of service, she was proud to hold the rank of lance-sergeant in her regiment. (She was appointed to the role of lance-sergeant.)

  • "lance-sergeant's stripes": the insignia worn by a lance-sergeant, typically a single chevron or stripe on the uniform.

    • He sewed the lance-sergeant's stripes onto his sleeve with care. (He attached the insignia indicating his rank.)
Variants and Related Words

  • Lance corporal (n): a lower rank than lance-sergeant, often a temporary appointment for a soldier acting as a corporal.

    • The lance corporal was given additional responsibilities before his promotion to lance-sergeant. (A soldier with the rank of lance corporal.)

  • Sergeant (n): a higher permanent rank than lance-sergeant, typically commanding a squad or section.

    • The sergeant supervised the lance-sergeant's work during the mission. (The full sergeant oversaw the acting sergeant.)
Synonyms
  • Acting sergeant: a soldier temporarily performing the duties of a sergeant without the permanent rank.
  • Non-commissioned officer (NCO): a general term for ranks like lance-sergeant, sergeant, and corporal.
Related Idioms

  • "To earn one's stripes": to gain promotion or recognition through hard work, often used metaphorically for achieving a higher rank like lance-sergeant.

    • He earned his stripes as a lance-sergeant after years of dedicated service. (He was promoted through effort.)

  • "To be a lance-jack": a colloquial British military term for a lance-sergeant or lance corporal.

    • The soldiers affectionately called their lance-sergeant "lance-jack" during the campaign. (A nickname for the rank.)