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informal structure

[ɪnˈfɔːrməl ˈstrʌktʃər]
nounpl: informal structures
estrutura informal
1. An organizational or social system that operates without official rules, hierarchy, or formal procedures; the unwritten patterns of relationships and communication within a group or organization
Despite the company's formal hierarchy, the informal structure revealed that decisions were actually made by a small group of influential employees.
Apesar da hierarquia formal da empresa, a estrutura informal revelou que as decisões eram realmente tomadas por um pequeno grupo de funcionários influentes.
2. In sociology and anthropology, the network of social relationships and communication patterns that develop naturally within a formal organization
The research focused on understanding the informal structure of the team to improve collaboration.
A pesquisa se concentrou em compreender a estrutura informal da equipe para melhorar a colaboração.
Synonyms
unofficial structuresocial networkgrapevineshadow organizationhidden hierarchy
Antonyms
formal structureofficial hierarchybureaucratic structureorganizational chart

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
estrutura informal
Standard usage in business and organizational contexts
São Paulo
estrutura informal; rede informal
Common in corporate and academic discussions
Portugal
estrutura informal
Used in organizational and sociological contexts

Related Idioms & Phrases

behind the scenes
the real power structure
unwritten rules
shadow network
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