There are various synonyms for the phrase "be subordinate to". These include "be subservient to", "be inferior to", "be under the authority of", "be subject to", "be secondary to", "be dependent on", "yield to", "accept the authority of", "obey", "comply with", "bow to", "defer to", "acquiesce to", "conform to", and "follow the lead of". Understanding these synonyms can help in choosing the right words while communicating a sense of hierarchy between people, organizations, or concepts. It is important to note, however, that the use of these phrases should be done sensitively to avoid disrespecting people or undermining their contributions.