High-class Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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high-class

[หˆhaษชหŒklรฆs ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

luxury lifestyle

Of superior quality or sophistication, often associated with wealth and luxury. High-class products are usually more expensive due to their premium materials and craftsmanship.

Synonyms

elegant, luxurious, sophisticated, upscale.

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Word Description / Examples
high-class

Used to describe something or someone that belongs to the highest social or economic levels, often with a focus on affluence and quality.

  • The high-class restaurant requires reservations months in advance
  • Her high-class manners impressed everyone at the gala
luxurious

Refers to something that provides extreme comfort and pleasure, typically connoting expense and opulence.

  • They stayed in a luxurious suite during their vacation
  • This brand is known for its luxurious skin care products
upscale

Describes something that is expensive and designed to appeal to affluent consumers, often implying high quality.

  • They moved to an upscale neighborhood with better schools
  • The upscale boutique offers a unique shopping experience
elegant

Describes something that is tastefully luxurious and refined, often simple yet sophisticated in appearance or design.

  • She wore an elegant black dress to the formal event
  • The elegant dรฉcor of the hotel room made it stand out
sophisticated

Used to describe something that is advanced, complex, and cultured, often implying a high level of education or worldly experience.

  • She is very sophisticated, always up-to-date on the latest trends
  • The new software has a sophisticated interface

Examples of usage

  • She always stays at high-class hotels when she travels.
  • The high-class restaurant served the most exquisite dishes.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Social Context

  • In modern cultures, high-class often refers to behaviors and lifestyles that showcase wealth, such as fine dining, designer clothing, and luxury vacations.
  • The concept can vary dramatically across different cultures; what's considered high-class in one society may not have the same connotation in another.
  • Certain social events like galas or charity balls are seen as high-class, inviting guests from affluent backgrounds.

Pop Culture

  • Films often portray high-class environments through opulent settings and extravagant characters, like in 'The Great Gatsby.'
  • Fashion shows frequently feature high-class designs, showcasing the latest trends from elite designers who dominate the luxury market.
  • Reality TV shows sometimes highlight the lifestyles of the high-class, emphasizing wealth and luxury through extravagant homes and lavish parties.

Psychology

  • The concept of high-class can evoke feelings of aspiration or inadequacy, motivating individuals to engage in behaviors aimed at achieving a similar status.
  • Belonging to a high-class category can influence oneโ€™s identity and social interactions, often leading to a sense of pride or exclusivity.
  • Research indicates that access to high-class social networks can provide significant advantages in business and personal connections.

Economics

  • The high-class market segment often drives innovation in products and services, as brands seek to cater to affluent consumers.
  • Luxury brands frequently engage in marketing strategies that highlight exclusivity, maintaining their high-class status through limited editions and bespoke services.
  • The economic impact of high-class consumption can be substantial, influencing trends across industries such as real estate, automotive, and fashion.

Origin of 'high-class'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'high-class' combines 'high,' meaning superior or elevated, and 'class,' which refers to a group of people sharing similar social or economic status.
  • The use of 'class' to denote social standing dates back to the 19th century when social stratification became a significant focus in societies.
  • Initially used in British English, 'high-class' has been gradually adopted in other English-speaking cultures to denote elegance and sophistication.

The term 'high-class' originated in the early 1900s and was used to describe individuals or things of superior quality or sophistication. It is often associated with wealth and luxury, indicating a certain level of refinement and exclusivity. Over the years, the term has been used to denote a luxurious lifestyle, premium products, and upscale services.