Does the word "rank," "tier," and "class" are all interchangeable? Or could they only be used in a specific situation?

Native speaker’s answer

Rebecca

I wouldn't say they're always interchangeable, maybe in some cases! But they do all relate to a system of hierarchy or determining the level of something. A "rank" has to do with a hierarchical system in an organization. One thing could be below another. "Tier" can mean the same thing as "rank" to refer to a level or system of organization hierarchy. "Class" often has to do with quality, but quality within a hierarchy. Here, we see that tier refers to both "quality" and "hierarchy." Ex: These are class A fruits. Ex: We should take out the bottom tier of fruits so that it's not too crowded. Ex: How would you rank these fruits in order of best to worst?

How do native speakers use this expression?

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