unterordnen
Translation
to subordinate, to classify, to submit (oneself)
Examples
Er musste sich dem Chef unterordnen.
He had to submit to the boss.
Man kann diese Akten dem Projekt unterordnen.
You can classify these files under the project.
Grammar Patterns
sich (acc.) j-m/et3 unterordnen to submit oneself to sb./sth. He submits to his superior.
et4 et3 unterordnen to subordinate sth. to sth. She subordinated her wishes to the goal.
Similar Words
Synonyms: unterwerfen, einordnen; Antonyms: überordnen, befehlen
Etymology
From 'unter' (under) and 'ordnen' (to order, to arrange). It literally means 'to order under' something else.
Memory Tips
Think of an organization chart ('Ordnung') where you place one position 'unter' (under) another in the hierarchy.