Classify: meaning, definitions and examples

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classify

[ˈklæsɪˌfaɪ ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

action

To arrange or organize into classes or categories.

Synonyms

categorize, group, organize, sort.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
classify	Best used in scientific, technical, or academic contexts where items are being divided into specific classes or groups based on shared characteristics. Scientists classify insects based on their wing structure. We need to classify these documents according to their confidentiality level.
categorize	Appropriate when separating items into categories based on identifiable criteria, often in everyday settings or general discussions. I need to categorize my books into fiction and non-fiction. Teachers often categorize students based on their learning styles.
sort	Typically used for arranging items in a sequence or specific order, often based on pre-determined criteria. Please sort the files by date. We need to sort the emails by priority.
group	Commonly used when bringing together items or people based on a common feature, often in informal or everyday situations. Let's group the students by age for the school trip. We should group the data by region for easier analysis.
organize	Suitable for arranging items or tasks in a structured and efficient way, often related to planning or preparation. I need to organize my desk to find things more easily. She is organizing the event for next week.

Examples of usage

She classified the documents based on their importance.
The books were classified according to their genres.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

information

To assign a classification to something based on its characteristics.

Synonyms

categorize, categorize, label, tag.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
classify	Used when organizing items or information into specific groups or categories based on shared characteristics. Scientists classify animals based on their physical traits. We need to classify these documents according to their confidentiality levels.
categorize	Appropriate for organizing items or ideas into categories for easier understanding or management. Librarians categorize books by genre. You should categorize your expenses to track your spending better.
label	Used for identifying or describing something by attaching a word or phrase to it. It can sometimes have a negative connotation if used to stereotype people. We need to label each box for the move. Don't label people so quickly; get to know them first.
tag	Commonly used in the context of digital content or social media to attach specific descriptors for easier searchability and organization. Make sure to tag your photos with relevant keywords. The blog posts are tagged to help users find related content.

Examples of usage

The scientist classified the new species of plant.
The library classified the books by subject.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Latin root 'classis,' meaning a 'class' or 'group'.
The term has evolved through the Old French 'classer' before entering the English language.
It was first used in its current form in the early 19th century.

Science

In biology, classification is fundamental, categorizing organisms into groups such as species, genus, and family.
The Linnaeus system classifies living things using a hierarchical structure, which is still widely used today.
Classification helps scientists communicate more clearly about different life forms and their relationships.

Education

In classrooms, classification is used to teach students about categorizing information, making learning easier.
Teachers often classify students’ work to assess their understanding and progress.
Learning to classify is a fundamental skill that helps with critical thinking and organization.

Technology

In data science, classification algorithms sort data into categories, aiding in decision-making processes.
Machine learning extensively uses classification to train models on various tasks such as image and speech recognition.
Search engines classify web pages according to content, improving the relevancy of search results.

Pop Culture

Many games and quizzes involve classification, challenging players to group similar items together.
TV shows often classify characters into heroes and villains, shaping the narratives we enjoy.
In libraries, books are classified into genres like fiction, non-fiction, mystery, and romance, guiding readers.

Translations

Translations of the word "classify" in other languages:

🇵🇹 classificar

🇮🇳 वर्गीकृत करना

🇩🇪 klassifizieren

🇮🇩 mengklasifikasikan

🇺🇦 класифікувати

🇵🇱 klasyfikować

🇯🇵 分類する (ぶんるいする)

🇫🇷 classer

🇪🇸 clasificar

🇹🇷 sınıflandırmak

🇰🇷 분류하다 (bunryuhada)

🇸🇦 يصنف (yusannif)

🇨🇿 klasifikovat

🇸🇰 klasifikovať

🇨🇳 分类 (fēnlèi)

🇸🇮 razvrstiti

🇮🇸 flokka

🇰🇿 жіктеу

🇬🇪 დახარისხება (dakhasiakhba)

🇦🇿 təsnif etmək

🇲🇽 clasificar

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,899 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.

...
8896 incidentally
8897 intricate
8898 exposing
8899 classify
8900 astonishment
8901 assimilation
8902 inertia
...