Words / B1

KLAS-ik/ˈklæsɪk/

Classic means typical, or of lasting high quality: a classic example; a classic novel. Classical often means ancient Greek/Roman or a music style — a common mix-up. Typical is the everyday twin for “classic example”. Do not call last week’s meme a classic unless you mean it is a typical case. Classic can also be a noun (a classic of English literature).

Meaning

Typical, or of very high quality and lasting value.

Examples

• “This is a classic example of a misleading headline.”
• “This is a classic example of a headline that overclaims.”
• “She prefers classical music, which is not the same as a classic novel.”

Good to know

a classic example / mistake. Lasting work: a classic. Mix-up: classical (Greece/Rome or music). Everyday: typical.

Near in meaning

typical

New