a class apart

USAGE SUMMARY

"a class apart" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used to describe someone or something that is outstanding, significantly different, or of a higher class. For example: "The student's performance on the essay was a class apart from the rest."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

What she watched: Mansfield Park ITV1 Mobile ITV1 A Class Apart BBC1 Ulrika: Am I a Sex Addict?

The Guardian

Skip to 7 27 to hear more about her HBO project titled "A Class Apart". .

Huffington Post

Just looks a class apart.

Independent

The food, however, is a class apart.

The Guardian - Travel

After that he was a class apart.

The Guardian - Sport

Friction drums, a class apart, are sounded by rubbing.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Out on the turf, though, Best Mate was a class apart.

The Guardian - Sport

But knowledge-intensive companies like Pfizer, this author argues, are in a class apart.

Harvard Business Review

Rousey a class apart What is there left to say about Ronda Rousey?

Independent

"Celtic were a class apart," said Steve Lomas, St Johnstone's manager.

The Guardian - Sport

The Daily Yomiuri called him a class apart, Japanese television called him Asia's number one player.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a class apart" to emphasize the superior quality or distinctiveness of a subject, making it clear that it stands out from others in its category.

Common error

Avoid using "a class apart" when describing something that is merely adequate or average. The phrase is best reserved for subjects that genuinely exhibit exceptional qualities.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a class apart" primarily functions as an adjectival phrase. According to Ludwig AI, it describes something that is outstanding or significantly different, as exemplified by the provided examples showcasing superior quality or distinctiveness.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Encyclopedias

18%

Academia

7%

Less common in

Science

6%

Formal & Business

6%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a class apart" is a grammatically correct and widely used adjectival phrase that describes something superior or distinct. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. It's commonly found in news and media, encyclopedias, and academic contexts to express admiration or highlight exceptional qualities. When using "a class apart", ensure it appropriately reflects the subject's superior nature and avoid misusing it for average subjects. Consider using synonyms like "in a league of its own" or "head and shoulders above" for variety.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in a league of its own

Emphasizes uniqueness and unmatched quality.

head and shoulders above

Highlights a significant difference in quality or ability.

second to none

Indicates that something is the best and cannot be surpassed.

unparalleled

Stresses the unmatched nature of something.

incomparable

Focuses on the lack of similar things to compare with.

a cut above

Suggests a noticeable improvement or higher quality.

streets ahead

Implies a significant lead or advantage.

out of this world

Emphasizes exceptional quality or performance.

in a different category

Highlights that something belongs to a higher or separate grouping.

one of a kind

Indicates that something is unique and without equal.

FAQs

How can I use "a class apart" in a sentence?

You can use "a class apart" to describe something that is superior or distinct from others. For example, "Her musical talent is "a class apart" from her peers".

What does it mean when something is described as "a class apart"?

When something is described as "a class apart", it means it is significantly better or different from others of its kind, setting a higher standard.

Which is correct, "a class apart" or "apart from the class"?

While both phrases are grammatically correct, they have different meanings. "A class apart" describes something superior, while "apart from the class" simply means separate from the group.

What can I say instead of "a class apart"?

Alternatives include "in a league of its own", "head and shoulders above", or "second to none", depending on the specific context.