a sense of class

USAGE SUMMARY

"a sense of class" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is often used to describe someone or something that is considered to be elegant and sophisticated. For example, "The young woman had a sense of class that was evident in everything she wore."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

This is a story, in a sense, of class conflict.

The Guardian - Opinion

"This has been a repository for a sense of class of the community," Mr. O'Dwyer said.

The New York Times

As for worries about creating a sense of class warfare, Ms. Wiley said Universal had none.

The New York Times

"He was a manager, a gentleman who had a sense of class," said Austin J. McGuigan, a former chief state's attorney who knew Mr. Bailey for 28 years.

The New York Times

The staggering presumption of a multimillionaire romanticising the community-strengthening harshness of mining while trying to instil a sense of class consciousness in a group of modestly paid but apparently contented office workers seemed lost on O'Grady.

The Guardian

Standing outside Tiffany's jewellery store in New York in the film's opening scene, impossibly soignée in a sculpted evening gown, Hepburn represents both the elegance of the period and a sense of class barriers about to break down.

The Guardian - Film

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

She brought a sense of class-consciousness along with a great strength of conviction.

SEP

All these observers also bring a sense of social class to their analysis of politics, but divorced from economic class.

The Guardian - Opinion

Tony Hall's achievement there has been to bring stability and a sense of effortless class and national pride, somehow mixed with accessibility, first-class appointments and high-quality products.

Independent

For his part, with his budget proposals, Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg contributed to a sense of looming class warfare.

The New York Times

Again, the wait for justice continues, and feeds the hatred that burns in the hearts of those already smarting from a sense of second class citizenry.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a sense of class" to describe someone who possesses elegance, sophistication, and good taste in their behavior, style, or surroundings.

Common error

Avoid using "a sense of class" to imply superiority or snobbery. Focus on describing genuine elegance and refinement, rather than social status or perceived privilege.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "a sense of class" is that of a noun phrase. It typically acts as the object of a verb or the complement of a preposition, describing a quality or characteristic. As confirmed by Ludwig, it's a correct and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Wiki

19%

Encyclopedias

6%

Less common in

Science

4%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a sense of class" is a grammatically correct noun phrase that is commonly used to describe elegance, sophistication, and refined taste. As confirmed by Ludwig, this phrase is correct and usable. It's important to use it accurately to convey the intended meaning without implying elitism or social superiority. The phrase appears most frequently in news and media sources, as well as wiki articles, and can be replaced with alternatives such as "an air of sophistication" or "a feeling of refinement" to add variety to your writing. While the phrase itself is considered neutral, it should be used judiciously to maintain the desired tone in formal and professional contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an air of sophistication

This alternative emphasizes the refined and cultured quality, focusing on the outward impression of elegance.

a feeling of refinement

Shifts the focus to the inner feeling or perception of elegance and good taste.

a display of elegance

Highlights the outward manifestation or demonstration of class and grace.

a touch of sophistication

Implies a subtle yet noticeable element of elegance or refinement.

an understanding of social strata

Focuses on awareness and comprehension of different social levels and hierarchies.

a consciousness of social standing

Emphasizes awareness and sensitivity to one's position within a social hierarchy.

an awareness of social divisions

Highlights the understanding and recognition of the separations between different social groups.

a grasp of etiquette

Focuses specifically on knowledge and application of proper manners and social conduct.

a command of decorum

Emphasizes the ability to maintain proper and dignified behavior in social situations.

refined sensibilities

Highlights the presence of cultivated taste and an appreciation for finer things.

FAQs

How can I use "a sense of class" in a sentence?

You can use "a sense of class" to describe someone or something that exhibits elegance, sophistication, and good taste. For example, "The hotel lobby had "an air of sophistication" that gave visitors "a sense of class"."

What's a good substitute for the phrase "a sense of class"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "an air of sophistication", "a feeling of refinement", or "a display of elegance".

Is it appropriate to use "a sense of class" in formal writing?

Yes, "a sense of class" is suitable for formal writing, particularly when describing qualities of elegance, sophistication, or social awareness. However, ensure the context aligns with the intended meaning and avoids any connotation of elitism.

How does "a sense of class" differ from "class consciousness"?

"A sense of class" refers to the perception or quality of elegance and refinement, while "class consciousness" refers to an awareness of one's social and economic standing in society. They address different aspects of social dynamics and personal qualities.