a working class

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a working class" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a social class consisting of people who are employed for wages, especially in manual or industrial work. Example: "The policies implemented by the government have a significant impact on a working class that is struggling to make ends meet."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

"I represent a working class.

The New York Times

It's a working class thing.

The Guardian

Boxing is undeniably a working class sport.

The Guardian - Sport

Herb Cain — he came from a working class family.

The New Yorker

came from a working class family.

Forbes

I'm a sucker for a working class rebel," he said.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

He considers himself to be 'a working class Irish Catholic'.

Wikipedia

of a Working-Class Journalist.

The New York Times - Books

"They're a working-class party for working people".

The Guardian

"I was a working-class kid.

The Economist

"I'm a working-class lad.

The Guardian - Business

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a working class", consider the specific context to ensure the term accurately reflects the intended meaning. Be mindful of potential connotations and choose alternative phrasing if necessary to avoid unintended bias or misinterpretation.

Common error

Be careful not to perpetuate stereotypes when discussing "a working class". Recognize the diversity within this group and avoid generalizations about their values, beliefs, or capabilities.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a working class" primarily functions as a noun phrase, often acting as the subject or object of a sentence. As Ludwig AI confirms, it refers to a social class of individuals employed for wages, particularly in manual or industrial labor.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

73%

Wiki

11%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Science

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a working class" is a common and grammatically correct noun phrase used to describe individuals employed for wages, particularly in manual or industrial labor. According to Ludwig AI, its primary function is to categorize a specific segment of the population based on their employment and economic status. Found predominantly in News & Media sources, this term is generally neutral in tone, making it widely applicable. When using this phrase, be mindful of potential stereotypes and ensure accurate representation. Alternatives include "blue-collar workers" and "laboring population".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

working people

A general term emphasizing the act of being employed.

blue-collar workers

Focuses specifically on workers in manual labor jobs.

laboring population

Emphasizes the aspect of physical work and the number of individuals involved.

the working population

Broader term encompassing all individuals who are employed.

the proletariat

A more formal and political term referring to the working class in a capitalist society.

rank-and-file employees

Focuses on the non-managerial employees.

wage earners

Highlights the fact that income is derived from wages.

the working poor

Specific to those who are employed but still live in poverty.

the working masses

Emphasizes a large group of people working.

labor force

Refers to all the people who are of working age and are either employed or actively looking for work.

FAQs

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

You can use "a working class" to describe people employed for wages, especially in manual or industrial work. For example, "The government policies significantly impact "a working class" struggling to make ends meet".

What are some alternatives to "a working class"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "blue-collar workers", "laboring population", or "the working population".

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

Yes, "a working class" is generally acceptable in formal writing, especially when discussing socio-economic issues. However, consider the specific audience and context, and choose alternative phrasing if necessary to avoid ambiguity or misinterpretation.

What are the social implications of using "a working class"?

Using "a working class" can evoke certain social and political connotations. Be mindful of these implications and ensure that your usage is respectful and accurate. Avoid perpetuating stereotypes or making generalizations about this diverse group of people.