classical
Definitions
Relating to ancient Greek or Roman culture, art, or language.
古希腊罗马的；古典（时代）的。
Relating to the formal European tradition of art music (as opposed to pop, jazz, etc.).
古典音乐的。
Following long-established principles or methods in a field.
正统的；经典理论的。
Root Breakdown
Root-derivedclass (rank) + -ic + -al (relating to) = 'of the first class.' Where classic stays general ('best of its kind'), classical narrowed to a specific top tier: the culture of ancient Greece and Rome (classical antiquity), and the formal art-music tradition built on those ideals (classical music). It also labels the established, original version of a theory (classical physics).
Root class still carries 7 more wordsCommon Collocations
- 1.classical music古典音乐
- 2.classical literature古典文学
- 3.classical antiquity古典时代
- 4.classical architecture古典建筑
- 5.classical languages古典语言
Example Sentences
- 1.
She studied classical Greek and Latin at university.
- 2.
He prefers classical music to rock and pop.
- 3.
Classical physics cannot fully explain the behaviour of atoms.
Easily Confused
classical vs classic — see the classic entry. Short version: classical points to ancient Greece/Rome or orchestral music; classic points to timeless, top-rank, or textbook-typical quality.