seniority system; seniority rule
Refers to a system where promotion, pay, or status is based primarily on length of service rather than merit. Commonly used in the context of Japanese corporate culture.
In many Japanese companies, the seniority system still remains.
年功序列 specifically refers to the seniority-based ranking or order, while 年功制度 is the broader system or institution.
Compound of 年功 (years of service, seniority) and 制度 (system, institution).