classist

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "classist" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe attitudes, behaviors, or policies that discriminate against people based on their social class or economic status. Example: "The new policy was criticized for being classist, as it disproportionately affected low-income families."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Blunt, in response, called Bryant a "classist gimp".

The Guardian

(The early days were quieter, but that's partly because access was more restricted – which is to say, more classist, elitist and US- and European-centric).

The Guardian - Opinion

"Now she's dead but not forgotten, dig her up and fuck her rotten," so chanted this year's freshers at Nottingham University, in an incident hot on the heels of the revelation that the LSE men's rugby team had distributed a freshers' leaflet full of racist, classist, homophobic and sexist slurs.

The Guardian

That is the sort of classist approach that should play well to Republican moderates looking for a system with a strong whiff of fairness masking the "I'm not a scientist" of social darwinism.

The Guardian - Opinion

Moreover, this type of classist rhetoric is precisely not what American voters need from the media.

The Economist

Furthermore, feminists of colour, notably bell hooks, found Friedan's manifesto both racist and classist, not at all applicable to African Americans and other working-class women who joined the labour force from necessity.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The latest sacrifice on the altar of the thin-skinned is David Starkey, also once the nation's darling, but now banned from appearing in a Cambridge University promo because of his racist, classist and no doubt anti-androgyne/trans/non-binary views.

Independent

the Harris Academy in south London is run by classist racists innit.

Independent

Is there any merit in her classist assertions?

Independent

She added: "Use of racist, sexist, homophobic, transphobic, xenophobic, classist, or generally offensive language in class, or submission of such material, will not be tolerated – including 'The Man,' 'Coloured People,'Illegals/IllegalAliensens,' 'Tranny' and so on – or referring to women/men as 'females' or 'males'".

Independent

"I don't want to sound classist, but it's a little bit different on the crossing," he said.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the word "classist", be specific about the actions or systems that perpetuate class inequality to avoid ambiguity and strengthen your argument.

Common error

Avoid assuming that all actions with "classist" effects are intentionally discriminatory. Unintended consequences can also perpetuate class inequality.

Linguistic Context

The word "classist" functions primarily as an adjective to describe something that embodies or promotes classism, which is prejudice against or in favor of people belonging to a particular social class. It can also function as a noun referring to a person who believes in classism. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

69%

Encyclopedias

3%

Science

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Academia

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "classist" is a potent descriptor for attitudes, behaviors, or systems that perpetuate inequality based on socioeconomic class. As affirmed by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically sound and commonly used. Predominantly found in news and media, and occasionally in encyclopedias and scientific discussions, "classist" serves to critique and challenge biases favoring certain socioeconomic groups. While it can be used to describe intentions it is also important to note that unintended actions may also have "classist" effects. When using "classist", ensure you're clear about the specific actions or systems you're criticizing to avoid ambiguity and strengthen your point.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

discriminatory based on class

Explicitly states the form of discrimination, making the bias clear.

socioeconomic bias

Highlights the influence of social and economic factors in creating prejudice.

elitist

Focuses on the superiority of a select group rather than direct discrimination.

favoring the wealthy

Highlights the preferential treatment given to individuals with higher economic status.

disadvantaging the poor

Points out how certain actions or policies negatively impact those in lower socioeconomic classes.

snobbish

Emphasizes arrogance and disdain towards those considered lower in social status.

patronizing

Implies treating others with condescension due to perceived social or economic superiority.

class-conscious

Describes awareness and sensitivity to class differences, often with a focus on inequality.

socially stratified

Describes society divided into different layers based on socioeconomic status.

hierarchical

Focuses on the structural aspect of class systems and inequalities.

FAQs

How can I use "classist" in a sentence?

"Classist" can be used to describe attitudes, behaviors, or systems that discriminate against people based on their socioeconomic class. For example, "The admissions policy was criticized for being classist, as it favored students from wealthy backgrounds."

What are some synonyms for "classist"?

Alternatives to "classist" include "elitist", "snobbish", and "discriminatory based on class", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What is the difference between "classist" and "elitist"?

"Classist" refers specifically to prejudice or discrimination based on social class, while "elitist" describes a belief that a select group of people is superior. "Classist" actions stem from this belief.

Is it always wrong to have "classist" attitudes?

While acknowledging social class differences is not inherently wrong, acting on "classist" attitudes in a discriminatory way is generally considered unethical and harmful. Recognizing privilege without perpetuating inequality is a more equitable approach.