Noun Phrase
/ˈloʊər ˈɛm.paɪər/
The term "lower empire" most commonly refers to a historical context within the Roman Empire, specifically denoting the later, often more degraded phase of the empire's structure and governance, especially in contrast to the "Upper Empire." It could also refer to regions or states that are considered of lower importance, typically in a hierarchical context. The frequency of use is somewhat specialized, primarily appearing in historical and academic texts rather than in everyday conversation, making it more common in a written context.
The term "lower empire" does not frequently appear in idiomatic expressions directly, but similar phrases related to decay or decline could be relevant. Here are some related idiomatic expressions:
(Después de la reorganización, muchos empleados se encontraron en los niveles inferiores de la jerarquía de la empresa.)
The fall from grace - A loss of status or prestige.
(El escándalo del político marcó su caída de la gracia, similar al destino del bajo imperio.)
Downward spiral - A situation that worsens continuously.
The phrase "lower empire" combines two Middle English words: "lower," derived from Old English "lūwera," meaning lower or beneath, and "empire," originating from the Old French "empire" and Latin "imperium," which refers to command or authority. The term likely emerged in historical discourse to describe differing statuses within a large political entity.
Synonyms - Inferior empire - Lower realm - Lesser empire
Antonyms - Upper empire - Superior realm - Greater empire