have some class

USAGE SUMMARY

"have some class" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is often used as a courteous way to suggest that someone should behave in a more dignified and respectful manner. Example: "I can't believe you made rude comments during the meeting. Have some class, please." In this example, the speaker is asking the person to show more restraint and maturity in their behavior. Other situations where "have some class" may be used include when someone is being disrespectful, impolite, or inappropriate in social settings.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

Have some class".

The New York Times - Sports

I read the poem aloud, we have some class discussion, and I give some cultural context.

Yale University

"The companies pick up these films at festivals and they want the video to have some class," Mr. Downey said.

The New York Times

They have some class players at the back too and I think they will be ruthless when they have to be.

BBC

Here are our picks for the best new and easy point-and-shoot digital cameras that are not only inexpensive, they'll show your fellow students you have some class.

TechCrunch

Trump's nominees shucked and they jived Background they lacked, they contrived Some beribboned brass Did have some class Most others are merit-deprived.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

Erdogan's proposal would allow private schools to have some classes in Kurdish.

Los Angeles Times

Hopefully you will have some classes with them too.

WikiHow

If you have some classes together, let him know when you have breaks in your schedule.

WikiHow

We'll also have some-first class cultural facilities complete by then including a new international arts complex.

The Guardian

He has some class".

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use the phrase to politely suggest that someone should act in a more respectful or dignified manner, especially in social situations or when witnessing inappropriate behavior.

Common error

Avoid using "have some class" in overly formal or professional settings where a more direct or constructive approach might be more effective. The phrase can sometimes be perceived as condescending, so consider your audience and the situation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "have some class" primarily functions as an imperative, directly urging someone to exhibit better behavior. It uses a concise and somewhat forceful manner to suggest the need for greater dignity or respect in the current situation. Ludwig AI confirms this usage across numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

30%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "have some class" serves as a concise and direct imperative, urging individuals to exhibit more dignified and respectful behavior. While grammatically correct, its usage is more common in informal settings. Ludwig AI data shows that it's frequently used in news and media, and on wikis, although it can occasionally appear in academic contexts. When you aim to encourage better behavior, consider that alternatives like "show some decorum" or "act with dignity" might be more appropriate in certain situations. Also, avoid using "have some class" in overly formal or professional environments, to avoid seeming condescending.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

show some decorum

Replaces "have class" with a more formal term for proper behavior.

act with dignity

Focuses on the dignified aspect of having class.

behave respectfully

Emphasizes respect as a key component of class.

conduct yourself properly

Suggests behaving in a socially acceptable manner.

maintain composure

Highlights the importance of remaining calm and collected.

exhibit good manners

Emphasizes politeness and etiquette.

demonstrate sophistication

Focuses on the refined and cultured aspect of class.

display some grace

Suggests moving and acting with elegance.

rise above it

Implies avoiding petty or undignified behavior.

keep it classy

A more contemporary and informal way to say the same thing.

FAQs

What does it mean to tell someone to "have some class"?

Saying "have some class" is a way of suggesting that someone should behave with more dignity, respect, or sophistication. It implies their current behavior is lacking in these qualities.

When is it appropriate to tell someone to "have some class"?

It's appropriate when someone is behaving rudely, disrespectfully, or in a way that is considered socially unacceptable. However, be mindful of the context and your relationship with the person, as it can come across as condescending.

What can I say instead of "have some class" if I want to be more polite?

You could use phrases like "show some decency", "behave respectfully", or "act with dignity" for a more polite and less confrontational approach.

Is "have some class" the same as "be classy"?

While related, they are slightly different. "Have some class" is a direct suggestion to improve one's behavior, whereas "be classy" is a general statement about possessing elegance and sophistication. You might tell someone to "have some class" in a specific moment, but describing someone as "be classy" is a comment on their overall demeanor.