noun
person of low rank or position
Refers to someone in a lower position within a hierarchy, such as in a company, organization, or social structure. Often used in contrast with 上位者 (じょういしゃ).
下位者の意見も尊重すべきだ。
We should also respect the opinions of those in lower positions.
彼は下位者に対して横柄な態度を取る。
He takes an arrogant attitude toward his subordinates.
部下 specifically means a subordinate in a workplace or organizational context, while 下位者 is a more general term for anyone of lower rank.
Compound of 下位 (かい, 'lower rank') and 者 (しゃ, 'person').