Order of precedence

An order of precedence is a sequential hiearchy of nominal importance, used by many organizations and governments.

One's position in an order of precedence isn't nessisarily an indication of functional importance, but rather an indication of ceremonial or historical relevance. For example, in the Canadian Order of Precedence, the Prime Minister of Canada is third in overall rank, despite the fact that he is unquestionably the most functionally important person in the nation. He is outranked by the Governor General and Chief Justice, both of whom are symbolically more important to Canada.

Lists:

• Canadian order of precedence
• United States order of precedence
• United Kingdom order of precedence
• French order of precedence

see also: protocol, Style - Manner of Address