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Classifications: meaning, definitions and examples

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classifications

 

[ˌklæsɪfɪˈkeɪʃənz ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

in biology

Classifications refer to the systematic arrangement of organisms into hierarchical categories based on similarities and differences. This helps scientists organize and study the vast diversity of living organisms.

Synonyms

categorization, grouping, taxonomy.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
classifications

Used when you want to refer to the process of organizing people or things based on shared qualities or characteristics, often in a detailed and systematic manner.

  • The classifications of the different species were listed in the biology textbook.
  • In our data analysis, we use several classifications to segment the user base.
categorization

Used when you are talking about the act of placing things into categories, making distinctions often less detailed than classifications.

  • The categorization of books in the library makes it easier to find what you’re looking for.
  • We rely on the categorization of expenses to manage our budget.
taxonomy

Used primarily in scientific or academic settings to refer to the systematic classification and naming of organisms or other entities.

  • The taxonomy of plants involves categorizing them into species, genera, and families.
  • In biology class, we learned about the taxonomy of different animal groups.
grouping

Used when you are talking about the act of combining things into groups based on similarities, often for simplification.

  • Grouping similar tasks together can make you more efficient.
  • Children were put into different grouping based on their reading levels.

Examples of usage

  • The classification of plants into different families is based on their physical characteristics.
  • The classification of animals into different phyla helps biologists understand evolutionary relationships.
Context #2 | Noun

in information technology

In IT, classifications involve categorizing and organizing data or information based on specific criteria. This helps in efficient data management and retrieval.

Synonyms

categorization, organization, sorting.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
categorization

Often used when talking about the process of placing items into specific categories for easier identification or study. This term is frequently used in marketing, library sciences, and social sciences.

  • The librarian is responsible for the categorization of the new books.
  • Categorization of customer feedback helps in understanding their concerns better.
organization

Refers to the arrangement and management of various elements in a systematic manner. It is often used in business, events planning, and daily tasks.

  • Good organization of resources can improve productivity.
  • She is known for her impeccable organization skills in managing events.
sorting

This term is most often used in the context of arranging items in a specific order, such as alphabetically or numerically. Commonly used in everyday tasks, computer science, and logistics.

  • The files need sorting before they can be filed away.
  • Sorting the emails by date helps in finding the latest messages quickly.

Examples of usage

  • The classification of data into different levels of sensitivity ensures proper access control.
  • The classification of files based on their content type facilitates easier search and retrieval.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'classification' comes from the Latin word 'classificare,' which means to arrange in classes.
  • It entered the English language in the 19th century, building on earlier usages related to categorizing things.
  • The suffix '-tion' implies an action or condition, making 'classification' a process of sorting into classes.

Science

  • In biology, classifications help scientists organize and understand the millions of species based on their similarities and differences.
  • The Linnaean system is a key classification method that groups living things using a hierarchical structure, like domain, kingdom, and species.
  • Classifications in fields like chemistry help to arrange elements according to their properties in the periodic table.

Education

  • In schools, classifications are used to group students by age, skill level, or subject to tailor teaching methods.
  • Standardized tests often lead to classifications that help identify students' strengths and weaknesses.
  • Classroom behavior management systems sometimes include classifications to set expectations for different groups of students.

Technology

  • Machine learning relies heavily on classifications to teach computers how to recognize patterns in data.
  • Social media algorithms use classifications to organize content, helping users see posts that match their interests.
  • Classification systems are foundational in organizing digital libraries, making it easier to find information.

Literature

  • Genres in literature are a form of classification, helping readers find books based on their interests, like fiction, non-fiction, or poetry.
  • The Dewey Decimal System uses classifications to organize books in libraries by subject matter.
  • Many writers classify characters into archetypes like hero, villain, or mentor to create more relatable and structured stories.

Translations

Translations of the word "classifications" in other languages:

🇵🇹 classificações

🇮🇳 वर्गीकरण

🇩🇪 Klassifikationen

🇮🇩 klasifikasi

🇺🇦 класифікації

🇵🇱 klasyfikacje

🇯🇵 分類

🇫🇷 classifications

🇪🇸 clasificaciones

🇹🇷 sınıflandırmalar

🇰🇷 분류

🇸🇦 تصنيفات

🇨🇿 klasifikace

🇸🇰 klasifikácie

🇨🇳 分类

🇸🇮 razvrstitve

🇮🇸 flokkanir

🇰🇿 жіктеулер

🇬🇪 კლასიფიკაციები

🇦🇿 təsnifatlar

🇲🇽 clasificaciones

Word Frequency Rank

Position #7,622 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.