French word

classique

Pronunciation

IPA/klasik/

Meaning

  • adjectiveclassic

Example

Ce film est classique.

This movie is a classic.

Illustration for classique (classic)

More examples

J'écoute souvent de la musique classique.

I often listen to classical music.

Core concept

A familiar example that sets the expected pattern for its genre.

Common phrases

  • musique classique

    classical music

  • film classique

    classic film

  • style classique

    classical style

Similar words

traditionnel: Following customs or methods handed down from earlier times.
typique: Showing the characteristic features of a particular type or situation.
ordinaire: Common and unremarkable, without anything especially distinctive.
prévisible: Easy to anticipate and therefore unlikely to cause surprise.

Definition in French

Qui désigne ce qui est typique d'un genre ou considéré comme un standard reconnu.

Word origin

The French adjective classique comes from Latin classicus, related to classis 'class', and developed from a term for social rank into one for recognized standards.

Usage tips

  • Classique can describe something conventional as well as something esteemed, so its tone depends on context rather than always expressing praise.

Other meanings

  • staplenoun

Opposites

Related words

Word lists with this word