noun B2 Upper-Intermediate Common

classification

kla-sih-fih-KAY-shuhn

Classification (noun) means the act or system of sorting things into groups based on shared characteristics. Example: “The classification of species is based on shared physical traits.”

noun

The act or system of sorting things into groups based on shared characteristics.

"The classification of species is based on shared physical traits."

"Their new classification system made the library much easier to use."

How to Use Classification

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishSorting things into organised categories.

Common pairings

a classification system scientific classification

Word Forms

classifications plural

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The _____ of species is based on shared physical traits.

Etymology

Borrowed from French classification, ultimately built from Latin classis ("class") plus the verb-forming suffix -ficare ("to make").

Origin: Latin

Rhymes for classification

ion lion Zion Dion Sion union scion Orion Onion action minion bunion

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does “classification” mean?

The word “classification” means the act or system of sorting things into groups based on shared characteristics. In plain terms, sorting things into organised categories.

How do you pronounce “classification”?

“Classification” is pronounced kla-sih-fih-KAY-shuhn (/ˌklæsɪfɪˈkeɪʃən/ in IPA).

How do you use “classification” in a sentence?

Here is “classification” used in a sentence: “The classification of species is based on shared physical traits.”

What part of speech is “classification”?

“Classification” is a noun.

Where does the word “classification” come from?

The word “classification” comes from Latin. Borrowed from French classification, ultimately built from Latin classis ("class") plus the verb-forming suffix -ficare ("to make").

Is “classification” a common word?

“Classification” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.