The phrase "kick upstairs" is a colloquial expression that refers to promoting someone to a higher position, often with the intention of eliminating their influence or transferring them to a less critical role. The opposite of this phrase, therefore, would be "demote" or "downgrade," which means to reduce someone's position or status in an organization. Other antonyms for "kick upstairs" include "reprimand," "rebuke," "criticize," and "chastise," all of which imply a negative reaction to an individual's performance or behavior. In many cases, a demotion or reprimand can be more effective than a promotion when it comes to improving someone's performance or dealing with problematic individuals.