"in the classical sense" vs "in a classic sense"

Question

"in the classical sense" vs "in a classic sense"

Both 'in a classic sense' and 'in the classical sense' are correct, but they are used in slightly different contexts. 'In a classic sense' is more general and can refer to something being traditional or typical, while 'in the classical sense' specifically refers to the time period of ancient Greece and Rome or to the traditional principles of an art form.

Last Updated: March 21, 2024

This phrase is used to refer to something in relation to the time period of ancient Greece and Rome or to the traditional principles of an art form.

Examples:

The term 'tragedy' has a specific meaning in the classical sense of literature.
She studied philosophy in the classical sense, focusing on the works of Plato and Aristotle.
The sculpture was created in the classical sense, with attention to balance and proportion.

Alternatives:

in the traditional classical sense
in the ancient sense
in the Greco-Roman sense
according to classical principles
in the classic style

This phrase is used to describe something that is considered traditional or typical in a general sense.

Examples:

The film was a success in a classic sense, with a hero overcoming great odds.
Her style is elegant in a classic sense, with simple lines and neutral colors.
The story follows a classic structure in a classic sense, with a clear beginning, middle, and end.

Alternatives:

in the traditional sense
in a typical way
in a conventional manner
in a standard fashion
in a customary style

Answer 1

in the classical sense

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to specifically refer to the time period of ancient Greece and Rome or to the traditional principles of an art form.

Answer 2

in a classic sense

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to refer to something being traditional or typical.

"in the classical sense" vs "in a classic sense"

in the classical sense

in a classic sense

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