What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
caste
Example
In some countries, the caste system determines a person's social status from birth. [caste: noun]
Example
She belongs to a high caste and enjoys certain privileges in society. [caste: adjective]
rank
Example
He holds a high rank in the military. [rank: noun]
Example
She is ranked as one of the top athletes in the world. [ranked: past participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Rank is more commonly used than caste in everyday language. Rank is versatile and can be applied in various contexts, while caste is more specific and often used when discussing particular cultural or historical systems.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between caste and rank?
While caste is typically associated with a more formal or academic tone, rank can be used in both formal and informal contexts, making it more versatile in terms of formality.