middle class

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "middle class" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe a certain socio-economic group within a given society. For example, "The majority of citizens in the United States belong to the middle class."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

48 human-written examples

Middle class".

The New Yorker

The American middle class.

The New Yorker

We're very middle class".

The New York Times

They're culturally middle class.

The Economist

The middle class.

The New York Times

That's the middle class.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

12 human-written examples

They're upper-middle class.

The New York Times

Most are middle-class.

The Economist

Middle-class heaven.

Independent

Middle-class anxiety.

The New Yorker

"Middle-class folks, elderly, retirees".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "middle class", be specific about the country or region you're referring to, as the definition can vary significantly.

Common error

Don't assume that all members of the "middle class" share the same values, experiences, or political views. This is a diverse group with varying backgrounds and circumstances.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "middle class" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as a subject or object in a sentence. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in describing a socioeconomic group. For example, "The middle class is shrinking."

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

89%

Encyclopedias

4%

Wiki

2%

Less common in

Science

2%

Formal & Business

1%

Academia

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "middle class" is a very common and grammatically correct term used to describe a socioeconomic group. As Ludwig AI points out, it is widely used across various contexts, particularly in news and media. While its definition can vary depending on the country or region, it generally refers to individuals and families who are neither wealthy nor poor, occupying a middle ground in terms of income, occupation, and social status. It's important to avoid generalizations and consider the diversity within the "middle class" when discussing its experiences and perspectives.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

middle income bracket

Focuses specifically on the income level associated with the middle class.

the working middle

Emphasizes the working aspect of individuals within the middle class.

bourgeoisie

A more formal and sometimes pejorative term for the middle class, particularly in a historical context.

the comfortable class

Highlights the relative financial stability often associated with the middle class.

median income earners

Highlights those earning around the median income, often associated with the middle class.

professionals and managers

Describes the occupations typically found within the middle class.

the suburban demographic

Focuses on the geographic location often associated with the middle class.

the aspirational class

Focuses on the ambition and goals associated with being in or moving into the middle class.

the average earners

A general term for those earning an average income.

the middle ranks of society

A more general and less economically focused term.

FAQs

How is the term "middle class" typically used in a sentence?

The phrase "middle class" is used to describe a socioeconomic group. For example: "The government is implementing policies to support the "middle class"."

What are some alternative phrases I can use instead of "middle class"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "middle income bracket", "working middle", or "median income earners".

Is it correct to refer to someone as "middle class"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. The term "middle class" is a common descriptor for a specific socioeconomic group.

What factors determine if someone belongs to the "middle class"?

Membership in the "middle class" is usually determined by a combination of factors, including income, occupation, education, and social status.