classification
gb/klˌæsɪfɪkˈeɪʃən/ us/klˌæsɪfɪkˈeɪʃən/
B1
English
~ 3700
Senses
0 senses
Noun
B1
action
1
Act of arranging into categories
The act of putting things into groups because they are similar in some way.
Usage pattern:
[classification] of [things] based on [criteria]
Common mistake:
Learners sometimes confuse 'classification' with 'class', but 'class' can mean a group itself or a school session, while 'classification' is the process or system.
Synonyms
categorization (Slightly more informal and often used interchangeably, but classification is more formal and systematic.)
Antonyms
disorganization (Refers to a lack of order or grouping.)
Collocations
scientific classification
|classification system
|social classification
|classification scheme
|classification criteria
Themes
science
|education
|organization
|core_vocabulary
Examples
- The classification of animals is based on their physical and genetic traits.
- This book provides a detailed classification of different types of rock.
- Accurate classification of data is essential for research.
Learner examples
- The teacher showed the classification of animals.
- We learned the classification of fruits.
- This chart shows the classification of jobs.
Noun
technical
B2
entity
2
Category given in a system
A level or group given to something in an official system.
Usage pattern:
[something] has a [classification] of [level/type]
Common mistake:
Learners may confuse this with 'qualification'; however, 'classification' here is about an assigned category, not a skill or certificate.
Synonyms
ranking (Implies order or hierarchy, while classification can be broader and not always ranked.)
Antonyms
unclassified status (Indicates no assigned category, especially in official contexts.)
Collocations
security classification
|job classification
|classification level
Themes
government
|military
|science
|education
|work
|core_vocabulary
Examples
- The report has a top-secret security classification.
- This job classification determines your salary range.
- Each product is given a classification based on its safety level.
Learner examples
- The file has a secret classification.
- The job has a high classification.
- They gave the building a safety classification.
Grammar
Dictionary form
classification
IPA
GB/klˌæsɪfɪkˈeɪʃən/
US/klˌæsɪfɪkˈeɪʃən/
Syllables & stress
clas - si - fic - a - tion (5 syllables)
Stress on 4th syllable (a)
Word forms
Noun
- Base: classification
- Plural: classification, classifications
Word family
Forms
classifications
noun
Related words
classifier
noun C1
classifiable
adjective
Negative and opposite forms
declassify
verb C1
unclassified
adjective
Expressions
scientific classification
1/sˌaɪəntˈɪfɪk klˌæsɪfɪkˈeɪʃən/
fixed phrase
technical
System for grouping living things
A way scientists put plants and animals into groups based on how they are alike.
Examples
- Scientific classification helps us understand the relationships between species.
- Linnaeus developed a system of scientific classification still used today.
security classification
1/sɪkjˈʊɹɪti klˌæsɪfɪkˈeɪʃən/
fixed phrase
technical
Confidentiality category for information
An official label showing how secret information is.
Examples
- The document has a high security classification and cannot be shared.
- Her clearance allows access to files with a top security classification.