1
general::
Phrase(s): pull rank (on someone)
Fig. to assert one’s rank, authority, or position over someone when making a request or giving an order. • Don’t pull rank on me! I don’t have to do what you say! • When she couldn’t get her way politely, she pulled rank and really got some action.
McGrawhill's American Idioms And Phrasal Verbs
2
general::
Use one's higher status to compel obedience or obtain privileges, as in She hated pulling rank in the office, but sometimes it was necessary. This term comes from the military. [c. 1920]
American Heritage Idioms