Stratification: meaning, definitions and examples

This term is often used in sociology or geology. In sociology, it refers to the unequal distribution of resources and social hierarchies in society. In geology, it describes layers of sediment or rock.

• Social stratification can affect people's access to education and healthcare.
• The stratification of soil layers indicated different historical periods.

This is relevant when distinguishing between different items or ideas. It can be used in business, education, and science to describe the process of making or perceiving distinctions.

• Product differentiation helps companies stand out in a competitive market.
• Teacher differentiation practices ensure that all students' learning needs are met.

Use this word to describe a system where people or things are ranked one above the other according to status or authority. Often used in organizational and social contexts.

• In the company's hierarchy, the CEO is at the top.
• Social hierarchy can influence people's opportunities and life outcomes.

Use this word when organizing or categorizing items, people, or concepts based on shared characteristics. It applies to many fields such as biology, library science, and machine learning.

• The classification of books in the library makes it easier to find information.
• In biology, species classification is essential for understanding evolutionary relationships.

Stratification is typically used in a scientific or sociological context to describe the arrangement or classification of something into different layers or groups.

• The stratification of society into different social classes can be traced back centuries
• Geologists study the stratification of rock layers to understand Earth's history

Layering is a more general term that can be used in a variety of contexts to describe the arrangement of something in layers, such as clothing, materials, or sediment.

• The cake had multiple layers of chocolate and cream
• Layering your clothes can help to keep you warm in cold weather

Bedding is often used in a geological context to describe the layering of sedimentary rocks, or in everyday life to refer to sheets, blankets, and other materials used on a bed.

• The bedding planes in the rock formation were clearly visible
• She went to the store to buy new bedding for her bedroom

Stratagem is used to refer to a plan or scheme, especially one used to outwit an opponent or achieve a specific goal. This word often carries a connotation of cunning or deceit.

• The general devised a clever stratagem to flank the enemy troops
• His stratagem to win the business deal involved a bit of trickery