The opposite of being promoted can be described in many ways, depending on the context. To begin with, an individual can be demoted, which means that they are moved to a lower rank or position from their original role. They can also be passed over or overlooked, which refers to a case when someone may be deserving of a promotion but was not given one. Similarly, someone can be disregarded or ignored, where their hard work and dedication go unnoticed. In a more dramatic case, one can be fired, terminated or let go from their job. Thus, there are many antonyms to "are promoted," but they all point to an expectation that was not met.