subagency

subagency

A subagency handles local permits for the main office.

Definition
  1. Noun:
    • A subordinate agency: "subagency" refers to an agency that operates under the authority or control of a larger, primary agency. It is a secondary or branch office that handles specific tasks or functions on behalf of the main agency.
Usage Examples
  • (A branch office operating under the main insurance agency.)
  • (A subordinate unit within a larger government department.)
  • (A smaller office handling specialized travel services under a main travel agency.)
Advanced Usage

  • "to act as a subagency": to function in a secondary, delegated capacity.

    • The local office acts as a subagency for the national organization. (It performs duties on behalf of the larger body.)

  • "subagency agreement": a formal contract defining the relationship between a primary agency and its subordinate.

    • The subagency agreement specified the commission split and service boundaries. (The contract outlined the terms of the subordinate relationship.)
Variants and Related Words

  • Subagent (n): a person who acts as an agent for another agent.

    • The subagent handled the sale on behalf of the main real estate agent. (A person delegated to act for an agent.)

  • Agency (n): the capacity, condition, or state of acting or of exerting power; an organization or business providing a particular service.

    • The main agency oversees all subagencies in the region. (The primary organization managing subordinate offices.)
Synonyms
  • Branch: a division or office of a larger organization.
  • Subsidiary: a company controlled by a holding company.
  • Subordinate office: an office that is lower in rank or position.
Phrasal Verbs
  • Sub out (informal): to delegate a task or responsibility to a subagency or subagent.
    • The company decided to sub out the data entry work to a subagency. (They delegated the work to a subordinate agency.)
Related Idioms

  • Under the umbrella of: under the control or protection of a larger entity.

    • The subagency operates under the umbrella of the main corporation. (It functions within the larger organization's structure.)

  • Pass the buck: to shift responsibility to someone else, often a subordinate.

    • The manager tried to pass the buck to the subagency when the project failed. (He attempted to blame the subordinate agency.)