Stratification: meaning, definitions and examples
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stratification
[ˌstratɪfɪˈkeɪʃən ]
Definitions
social
The action or process of dividing a society into different social classes or strata, based on factors such as wealth, power, and prestige.
Synonyms
classification, differentiation, hierarchy.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| stratification |
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.
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| differentiation |
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.
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| hierarchy |
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.
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| classification |
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.
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Examples of usage
- The country's stratification was evident in the clear divide between the rich and the poor.
- Social stratification can have a significant impact on an individual's opportunities and quality of life.
geological
The arrangement of rocks in distinct layers, reflecting the different periods in which they were formed.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| stratification |
Stratification is typically used in a scientific or sociological context to describe the arrangement or classification of something into different layers or groups.
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| layering |
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.
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| bedding |
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.
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| stratagem |
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.
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Examples of usage
- The geologist studied the stratification of the rock formations to determine their age.
- The stratification of the sedimentary layers provided valuable information about the history of the region.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word comes from the Latin 'stratum', meaning 'layer', which evolved to describe layers in various contexts.
- It was first used in the 20th century in sociology to describe different social classes, reflecting societal structures.
- In geology, it refers to layers of rock, helping scientists understand Earth’s history.
Sociology
- Stratification in society often refers to social inequality, including differences in wealth, status, and power.
- The three main forms of social stratification are caste systems, class systems, and meritocracies.
- Social stratification influences life opportunities, such as education, healthcare, and employment.
Psychology
- People's perceptions of their social class can significantly impact their mental health and worldview.
- Research shows that social stratification can lead to feelings of alienation or belonging, affecting social interactions.
- Theories on stratification also explore how it can perpetuate prejudices and stereotypes across generations.
Geology
- Stratification in geological terms refers to layers of sedimentary rock, which reveal insights into Earth’s past environments.
- Each layer or stratum can hold fossils and minerals, helping to track climate changes over millennia.
- Geologists study stratification to locate natural resources, like oil and minerals, found in specific layers.
Education
- In educational contexts, stratification can occur when students are grouped based on ability or achievement.
- Streaming students into different classes based on their skills may enhance learning for some, while limiting opportunities for others.
- Debates continue about the fairness and effectiveness of stratification in education systems around the world.
Translations
Translations of the word "stratification" in other languages:
🇵🇹 estratificação
🇮🇳 स्तरीकरण
🇩🇪 Schichtung
🇮🇩 stratifikasi
🇺🇦 стратифікація
🇵🇱 stratyfikacja
🇯🇵 層別化 (そうべつか)
🇫🇷 stratification
🇪🇸 estratificación
🇹🇷 tabakalaşma
🇰🇷 계층화 (階層化)
🇸🇦 ترتيب طبقي
🇨🇿 stratifikace
🇸🇰 stratifikácia
🇨🇳 分层 (fēncéng)
🇸🇮 stratifikacija
🇮🇸 lögskipting
🇰🇿 стратификация
🇬🇪 სტრატიფიკაცია
🇦🇿 stratifikasiya
🇲🇽 estratificación