class
noun (countable)
UK/klɑːs/US/klæs/
a system for dividing society into groups based on social or economic status; also refers to elegance, style, or distinction in manner or behavior
Example Sentences
In many places, social class can influence one’s access to education and healthcare.
She handled the unexpected setback with remarkable class and composure.
Discussions about class often highlight disparities in wealth and opportunity.
He demonstrated a lot of class by apologizing sincerely for his mistake.
Their society is divided into distinct classes, each with its own privileges and responsibilities.
The event was organized with such class that all the guests felt like royalty.
Although they came from different classes, the two friends formed a close bond, united by mutual respect and shared goals to help their local community flourish.
Her elegant attire and gracious manners showcased a level of class that left a lasting impression on everyone who met her, inspiring others to emulate her refined poise.
Thesaurus
Synonyms
verb (transitive)
UK/klɑːs/US/klæs/
to categorize or regard something as belonging to a particular group or type
Example Sentences
Experts class the invention as a major technological breakthrough.
The library system classes this novel under historical fiction.
He tends to class people based on their music preferences, which can be misleading.
The museum curator decided to class the new artifact with existing Bronze Age items.
Some institutions class these courses as elective subjects rather than core requirements.
Researchers classed the samples into multiple categories for further analysis.
Authorities initially classed the species as endangered, prompting conservation efforts and strict regulations to protect its habitat from further degradation.
Although the movement has diverse influences, critics often class it with other avant-garde styles, citing its experimental approach and departure from traditional norms.
Thesaurus
Synonyms
How to Use
A structured grouping, often based on social, educational, or categorical distinctions.“Class” can be used in various contexts to refer to a group or category, whether social, academic, or organizational. In the social sense, it often denotes hierarchical divisions within society based on factors such as wealth, education, or occupation. When describing education, “class” refers to a group of students meeting regularly to learn a particular subject, which helps specify both the subject matter (e.g., “history class”) and the collective group of students enrolled (“my classmates”). In a broader sense, “class” also applies in classifications of items or ideas, such as taxonomy, where species are grouped into classes, orders, and families in biological contexts. You might say “class” in casual conversation, like “He has a lot of class,” meaning someone possesses refined behavior or style. Meanwhile, in coding or software terminology, “class” can denote a template or blueprint for objects, defining attributes and methods. Regardless of the field, employing the term “class” provides clarity about the nature of grouping—be it people, objects, or ideas—and signals an organized or systematic approach to categorization. When writing, consider specifying the type of class you mean and why that classification matters. By doing so, your audience will better understand the context and purpose of the grouping you describe, whether it’s a university course or a socioeconomic tier within society.
Alternatives
If you’re looking for alternatives to “class” to suit a specific context, you have numerous options. For a social grouping, you might use “stratum” or “tier” to highlight hierarchical positioning, particularly in discussions around wealth or status. In academic or institutional settings, words like “course” or “lesson” may replace “class” to refer specifically to structured sessions of learning or instruction. When categorizing objects or ideas, “category,” “group,” or “type” can serve as more general synonyms. “Division” underscores a deliberate separation, while “segment” hints at a portion of a larger whole. For more specialized discourse, like taxonomy in biology, “order,” “family,” “genus,” or “species” might be appropriate. In a social commentary context, “demographic” or “social group” can help specify a particular population segment. Each alternative conveys a slightly different nuance, so choose one that best aligns with the formality, depth, or specificity needed. Whether you’re describing a new course on campus or discussing the societal framework of a population, the right synonym for “class” can sharpen your message and clarify the distinctions you wish to convey.
Writing
When writing about any form of categorization or social division, the term “class” can serve as a powerful anchor. Start by defining the specific aspect of “class” you’re addressing—whether it’s socioeconomic categories, educational groupings, or even a conceptual classification system. Provide clear context for why this classification matters: does it impact a character’s opportunities in a story, or does it shape how an organization structures its departments? Use concrete examples to illustrate your points—like contrasting lower-, middle-, and upper-class perspectives or describing a particular college class’s curriculum and dynamics. By doing so, you offer your readers vivid scenarios that enrich their understanding of the term. Consider historical or cultural references if you’re tackling social classes, and integrate real-world data or anecdotes to highlight the complexities and nuances. Always strive for clarity and depth: define specialized terms, explain relationships among different classes, and maintain coherence so your argument or narrative flows seamlessly. A balanced approach, combining both factual and anecdotal elements, allows your discussion of “class” to be informative, engaging, and relevant.
Casual Conversation
In everyday conversation, “class” frequently pops up to describe everything from school subjects to social circles. You might say, “I’m late for math class,” or “Our graduating class is planning a reunion.” When talking about social layers, you could mention, “Some people move up a class if they earn more money.” The word “class” can also be used to praise someone’s elegance or style—“She always shows a lot of class in how she dresses and speaks.” In more laid-back discussions, “classy” is a common adjective that emphasizes sophistication without getting too formal. If you’re referring to a group of items or even an abstract category, you might say, “Those products are in a class of their own.” No matter the situation, “class” is a handy, versatile term that smoothly fits into many everyday chats, covering everything from sociology to personal flair. Casual use tends to be shorter, more direct, and woven into everyday experiences like going to school, meeting with peers, or planning events, making it easy to integrate into friendly conversation.
Etymology
The word “class” traces back to the Latin “classis,” originally referring to a group of citizens called together for military service or a naval fleet. Over time, “classis” evolved to encompass groupings of Roman citizens according to their wealth and responsibilities. With the spread of Latin through medieval Europe, the idea of “class” became associated with categorization and hierarchical divisions in various contexts, including social structures and academic organization. By the 18th and 19th centuries, as modern educational systems grew, “class” came to denote groups of students studying together, and it gained significant political and sociological weight in discussions about social stratification. Philosophers, economists, and social theorists delved deeper into class dynamics, examining how divisions based on wealth and status influenced society. Today, “class” remains a versatile term applied in countless scenarios, from school environments to socioeconomic debates, carrying centuries of historical resonance and an enduring connection to the ways humans organize and perceive the world around them.