during classes

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "during classes" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a period of time when classes are taking place, such as at a school or university. For example, "I usually take notes during classes to help me remember what I have learned."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

OK, during classes.

The New York Times

Especially during classes.

The New York Times

He says that his mind drifts to his father during classes.

The New York Times - Magazine

I do have memories of us discussing the Iraqi or Yugoslavian war during classes.

The Guardian

In Chichester School for Boys, electronic voting pads provide students with instant feedback during classes.

The Guardian

A "sweep team" of two deans and five security aides patrols the hallways during classes.

The New York Times

We text (and shop and go on Facebook) during classes and when we're on dates.

The New York Times

Besides helping the campers during classes, Mr. Pereira plays puzzle games with them during free time.

The New York Times

Even so, just in case, it is probably worth paying particular attention during classes on negotiation.

The Economist

She earned her degree with the help of state-paid aides, including one who took dictation during classes.

The New York Times

And groups of air-quality monitors, in fluorescent orange vests, sometimes come in during classes to test the air.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider your audience and the formality of the context when choosing between "during classes" and more informal alternatives like "in class".

Common error

Avoid assuming that any activity mentioned in proximity to the phrase "during classes" necessarily happened within the class time. Clearly specify if the event occurred before, after, or instead of class if it wasn't actually "during classes".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "during classes" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb by specifying the time at which an action occurs. It indicates when something happens in relation to scheduled class time. Ludwig's examples illustrate this across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

49%

Science

34%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "during classes" is a grammatically sound and frequently used way to specify that something happens while classes are in session. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's appropriate for various contexts, ranging from casual to formal. The most common usage appears in News & Media, followed by Science, with Wiki and Formal & Business contexts also present. For clarity, be sure the context clearly indicates what happened during the class time. Consider formality of context and choose most suitable alternative. "During classes" functions as an adverbial phrase, and its primary purpose is to provide temporal context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in class

This alternative is shorter and more direct, focusing on the location of the action.

while in class

This alternative emphasizes the simultaneous occurrence of the action with being in class.

in the course of classes

This alternative is more formal and emphasizes the progression of classes.

during lesson time

This alternative substitutes "classes" with "lesson time", focusing on the instructional period.

within the classroom setting

This alternative is more descriptive, highlighting the environment where the action takes place.

while attending classes

This alternative emphasizes the action of attending the classes.

throughout the classes

This alternative suggests the action happens consistently from beginning to end of the classes.

in scheduled class time

This alternative emphasizes that classes have a previously defined time.

whilst classes are in session

This alternative is more formal and less common.

during instructional periods

This alternative uses a more formal term for classes.

FAQs

How can I use "during classes" in a sentence?

You can use "during classes" to indicate when an action or event takes place while classes are in session. For example, "Students are expected to remain silent "during classes"".

What's the difference between "in class" and "during classes"?

"In class" generally refers to the location where something happens, while "during classes" emphasizes the time frame. You might say "I take notes "in class"", but "The event was promoted "during classes"".

What are some alternatives to saying "during classes"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "while in class", "in the classroom", or "during lesson time".

Is it grammatically correct to say "during classes"?

Yes, the phrase "during classes" is grammatically correct and commonly used in English to indicate that something occurs while classes are in session. It's a standard prepositional phrase used in various contexts.