What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
upperclassman
Example
As an upperclassman, I was able to choose more advanced courses. [upperclassman: noun]
Example
She became an upperclassman after completing her sophomore year. [upperclassman: adjective]
senior
Example
He's a senior in high school and will be graduating soon. [senior: noun]
Example
She's the senior editor of the newspaper and oversees all the articles. [senior: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Senior is more commonly used than upperclassman in everyday language, especially outside of educational settings. Senior is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while upperclassman is limited to the context of education.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between upperclassman and senior?
Senior is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts. On the other hand, upperclassman is more commonly used in educational settings and may sound too formal in other contexts.
