Definition

1. Noun:
   • A commissioned officer who commands troops in combat units: A "line officer" is a military officer with direct command authority over operational, combat units in the field, as opposed to officers serving in staff or support roles.

Usage

• The term is used to distinguish officers with direct operational command responsibilities from those in specialized support, advisory, or administrative positions.
• It is primarily used within military contexts.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The general was promoted from a line officer who led infantry battalions.
  • Staff officers develop plans, while line officers execute them in the field.

Advanced Usage

• "To come from the line officer corps": To have a career background in direct troop command and combat leadership.
  • His perspective was valued because he came from the line officer corps.

Variants and Related Words

• Line (in this context): Refers to the operational combat units of a military force.
• Staff officer: A commissioned officer who serves in a planning, advisory, or administrative role on a commander's staff, rather than commanding troops directly.
• Commissioned officer: An officer who has received a formal commission, authorizing them to hold command.

Synonyms

• Combat commander
• Troop commander

Antonyms

• Staff officer
• Support officer
• Supply officer

Related Phrases

• To hold a line command: To be in a position of direct command over combat units.
  • She aspired to hold a line command early in her career.

Noun

1. a commissioned officer with combat units (not a staff officer or a supply officer)