What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
classify
Example
The librarian will classify the books according to their genres. [classify: verb]
Example
The scientist used a classification system to classify the different species of plants. [classify: verb]
sort
Example
Please sort the laundry into different piles - whites, colors, and delicates. [sort: verb]
Example
The teacher asked the students to sort the shapes based on their number of sides. [sort: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Sort is more commonly used than classify in everyday language. Sort is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while classify is more specific and often used in specialized fields.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between classify and sort?
While classify is associated with a more formal tone, sort can be used in both formal and informal contexts, making it a more flexible and widely used word.
