Classes: meaning, definitions and examples

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classes

 

[หˆklรฆsษชz ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

education

Groups of students that meet together on a regular basis to be taught a particular subject or activity.

Synonyms

course, group, session.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
classes

Use 'classes' when referring to multiple lessons or periods of instruction in an educational setting, such as a school or university.

  • I have five classes today
  • My math and science classes are back-to-back
group

Use 'group' when referring to a number of students working or learning together, not necessarily in a formal educational setting.

  • We formed a study group for the final exam
  • The discussion group meets every Thursday
course

Use 'course' when referring to a series of classes or lectures on a particular subject, often leading to a qualification or certification.

  • She is enrolled in a biology course
  • The course lasts for three months
session

Use 'session' to describe a specific period of time used for a particular activity, often more informal or less structured than a class.

  • We had a Q&A session after the lecture
  • The training session was very informative

Examples of usage

  • She teaches two classes of English literature in the morning.
  • I have a class in the afternoon on anatomy and physiology.
Context #2 | Noun

social

A social rank, especially in the context of society or the hierarchy of a school.

Synonyms

social rank, standing, status.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
classes

Typically used in sociological or educational contexts to describe categories of people or groups based on different criteria such as economic status, education, etc.

  • She took various classes to complete her degree.
  • Society is often divided into different social classes.
social rank

Often used in discussions about hierarchical positions within a society or organization, usually focusing on the relative position of an individual or group.

  • Despite his wealth, he never attempted to climb the social rank.
  • Knights held a higher social rank than peasants in medieval times.
status

A versatile term that can describe one's position in society, a social network, or any system. It can also imply a temporary or current state of affairs.

  • Her status changed after she got promoted.
  • The project status is currently on hold.
standing

Used to denote someone's reputation or status within a community, organization, or group. It often implies respect or esteem.

  • Her standing in the academic community is very high.
  • His actions damaged his standing within the company.

Examples of usage

  • She comes from a very high class family.
  • He is considered to be of a lower class by some people.
Context #3 | Noun

characteristics

A set of characteristics or qualities that define a particular category.

Synonyms

category, group, type.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
classes

Plural form of 'class', often used in the same contexts as 'class' but referring to more than one.

  • She is taking several classes this semester.
  • Social classes can indicate different economic standings.
category

Employed to organize items or concepts into distinct groups based on their characteristics.

  • The book won an award in the non-fiction category.
  • Please select a category for your blog post.
type

Used to describe a category of people or things having common characteristics. Often emphasizes specific features or classifications.

  • This type of fabric is very durable.
  • What type of music do you like?
group

Refers to a collection of individuals or items considered together. Often used in social or organizational contexts.

  • A group of friends went hiking.
  • The project team formed a study group.

Examples of usage

  • His actions and behavior are not of a person from a good class.
  • She has a class that distinguishes her from the rest.

Interesting Facts

Education History

  • The concept of organized classes dates back to ancient Greece, where philosophers like Plato taught students in groups.
  • The first public school classes in the U.S. emerged in the early 19th century, aiming to educate all children, regardless of background.
  • Historically, education was often reserved for the wealthy, but the idea of free public education helped democratize learning.

Cultural Variations

  • Different countries may have varied systems of classes; for example, Japan emphasizes respect and discipline in classrooms.
  • In some cultures, classes are held outside traditional school buildings, like in community centers, emphasizing accessibility.
  • Montessori and Waldorf schools advocate for classes that encourage child-led learning through play and exploration.

Technological Impact

  • The rise of online classes has transformed education, allowing students from around the world to learn together virtually.
  • Blended learning combines traditional classes with online resources, providing flexibility in how students access information.
  • Technology has enabled asynchronous classes, meaning students can learn at their own pace, which is beneficial for diverse learning styles.

Psychological Effects

  • Group settings in classes can enhance social skills and teamwork as students collaborate on projects.
  • Studies show that positive classroom environments, where students feel safe, are crucial for effective learning and emotional well-being.
  • The interaction with peers during classes can foster a sense of belonging, which is vital for a child's self-esteem.

Pop Culture References

  • Films and TV shows often depict high school classes as crucial places for character development and social dynamics.
  • Popular culture, such as 'School of Rock,' highlights how engaging classes can ignite passion and talent in students.
  • The portrayal of university classes in series like 'Friends' explores the balance of academic and social life in young adulthood.

Translations

Translations of the word "classes" in other languages:

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡น aulas

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ณ เค•เค•เฅเคทเคพเคเค‚ (Kakshayein)

๐Ÿ‡ฉ๐Ÿ‡ช Unterricht

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ฉ kelas

๐Ÿ‡บ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ะบะปะฐัะธ

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡ฑ zajฤ™cia

๐Ÿ‡ฏ๐Ÿ‡ต ใ‚ฏใƒฉใ‚น (Kurasu)

๐Ÿ‡ซ๐Ÿ‡ท cours

๐Ÿ‡ช๐Ÿ‡ธ clases

๐Ÿ‡น๐Ÿ‡ท dersler

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ท ์ˆ˜์—… (Sueob)

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ูุตูˆู„ (Fusul)

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ฟ tล™รญdy

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฐ triedy

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ณ ่ฏพๅ ‚ (Kรจtรกng)

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฎ razredi

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ธ bekkur

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ฟ ัั‹ะฝั‹ะฟั‚ะฐั€ (synyptar)

๐Ÿ‡ฌ๐Ÿ‡ช แƒ™แƒšแƒแƒกแƒ”แƒ‘แƒ˜ (klasebi)

๐Ÿ‡ฆ๐Ÿ‡ฟ siniflษ™r

๐Ÿ‡ฒ๐Ÿ‡ฝ clases

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #1,119, this word is part of core intermediate vocabulary. It appears regularly in various contexts and is essential for natural-sounding English.