top third

USAGE SUMMARY

"top third" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it when referring to a ranking system, such as when discussing academic performance. For example, "The top third of students in his class received awards for their outstanding performance."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The top third has an engraving.

The New York Times

This change will affect the top third of earners.

The Guardian

Or a vintage 1950s Norman Norell, top, third from left.

The New York Times

The top third were eligible for California State campuses.

The New York Times - Magazine

Position a rack in the top third of the oven.

The New York Times - Magazine

Yet such people were generally sicker than the top third of the English group.

The Economist

The introduction of the £50,000 earnings cap would affect the top third of earners.

The Guardian

"Things remained extremely stable in the top third," Mr. Western said.

The New York Times

Families in the top third of incomes were the most optimistic since the June 2007 survey.

The New York Times

That means students need to wind up in the top third of their class.

The New York Times

Cut top third off each artichoke, and rub with lemon to prevent discoloring.

The New York Times - Food

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "top third", ensure it's clear what the whole is. For example, "top third of earners" is more precise than just "top third".

Common error

Avoid using "top third" without specifying what the 'whole' consists of. Vague usage can lead to misinterpretation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "top third" functions primarily as an ordinal descriptor, indicating a position or ranking within a defined group. As evidenced by Ludwig, it commonly denotes a high-achieving or superior segment.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

3%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "top third" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe the highest-ranking portion of a group, as confirmed by Ludwig. Its versatility allows for use across various contexts, including academics, economics, and general classifications. While generally neutral in register, it's crucial to specify the overall group being referenced for clarity. Alternatives like "upper echelon" or "elite group" can offer nuanced variations in meaning. Ultimately, understanding both the denotation and context is key to effectively using the phrase "top third".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

top segment

A more generic way to express the best part or portion of a group.

leading portion

Focuses on the act of leading and being ahead, suitable when discussing performance or ranking.

superior section

Emphasizes the superiority of this particular section.

highest segment

Emphasizes the segmentation and the supreme ranking without specifying the exact fraction.

best division

Replaces "third" with a more generic term for segments, while retaining the implication of quality.

premier tier

Implies a high level of quality and status, often used in business or competition contexts.

upper echelon

Replaces "third" with a more general term for a high level, focusing on status rather than specific proportion.

upper percentile

Shifts the focus to statistical ranking and performance relative to a population.

elite group

Highlights the exclusivity and superior quality of the group.

foremost rank

Highlights placement at the very front and ahead of others.

FAQs

How can I use "top third" in a sentence?

You can use "top third" to describe a segment or group that ranks highest in a defined category. For example, "The "top third" of students received scholarships".

What does "top third" mean in the context of academic performance?

In academics, "top third" typically refers to students who rank in the highest 33.3% of their class or cohort, often indicating superior performance.

Are there alternatives to using the phrase "top third"?

Yes, depending on the context, alternatives include "upper echelon", "elite group", or "top segment".

Is "top third" formal or informal language?

"Top third" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. Its clarity and directness make it appropriate across various settings.