Make Your Point > Archived Issues > DÉCLASSÉ

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"DÉCLASSÉ" Meaning: Something déclassé has a lower social status than it used to have. The spelling of the word illustrates the meaning: déclassé things have lost their class, or perhaps they never had much class to begin with. Pronunciation: day class SAY Part of speech: Adjective. (Adjectives are describing words, like “large” or “late.” They can be used in two ways: 1. Right before a noun, as in “a déclassé perspective.” 2. After a linking verb, as in "Their perspective was déclassé.”) Other forms: None, but you can use the similar word "declass," pronounced just like it sounds, "dee CLASS," as a verb meaning "to lower somebody or something's social class or social status." How to use it: Talk about a déclassé restaurant that's not as hip as it used to be; a déclassé type of clothing or accessory that used to be cool but isn't anymore; an entire philosophy, movement, or trend that's grown déclassé, and so on. You might say someone's particular actions or views or statements are déclassé--no longer cool or no longer tolerated--as in déclassé hazing on college campuses and déclassé jokes targeting women, people of a certain race, etc. I admit, using "déclassé" can make you sound snobby for so many reasons. The word is judgmental by definition; it's retained its French sound; it's got those little marks over the e's that make people nervous. So use your good judgment. Homes for sale that were built in the 90s and never updated are an interesting conglomeration of bold wallpaper, gold-colored fixtures, and déclassé glass blocks. To say the very least, I have a problem with the pundit's déclassé view of immigrants as leeches on society. Look away from the screen to explain the definition in your own words. You’ll know you understand what "déclassé " means when you can explain it without saying "passé" or "lower class." Think of something trendy that you used to be really into, and fill in the blanks: "It's/They're long since déclassé now, but _____ used to be _____." Example: "They're long since déclassé now, but skating rinks used to be the hippest place to be on a Friday night. It was extra cool if your parents let you go without them AND you were wearing something that glowed in the dark." Spend at least 20 seconds occupying your mind with the game and quote below. Then try the review questions. Don’t go straight to the review now—let your working memory empty out first. Playing With Words: This month, with the gracious permission of author Dr. Barbara Ann Kipfer, we’re sampling some English language trivia from Word Nerd: More Than 17,000 Fascinating Facts about Words. Dr. Kipfer’s book is a hearty 570-page feast that I’ve been gleefully devouring for the past few months. We’re starting off with easy questions, then working our way toward some whoppers at the end of the month, all the while focusing on funny, unusual words; surprising word histories; and cool tidbits about the language.  Yesterday's question: There’s a word you probably use a lot that once had the nautical meaning “towards the stern.” It starts with “A.” What is it? Answer: Afterward. Try this one today. It should feel rather difficult:   Pastas named for everyday things is an Italian tradition. What are the names of pastas for “little tongues,” “strings,” “butterfly,” and “little worms”?  A Point Well Made: Adam Phillips and Barbara Taylor: “In giving up on kindness – and especially our own acts of kindness – we deprive ourselves of a pleasure that is fundamental to our sense of well-being.” 1. The opposite of DÉCLASSÉ is A. HIGH-CLASS B. SHARP-DRESSED C. WELL-READ 2. After designating winners and losers became déclassé in children's sports, some argue, _____. A. the children who often lost suffered lower self-esteem B. there was an increase in sports-related scholarships C. we started raising a wimpier, more entitled generation Answers are below. To be a sponsor and send your own message to readers of this list, please contact Liesl at Liesl@HiloTutor.com. Make Your Point is crafted with love and brought to you each day for free by Mrs. Liesl Johnson, M.Ed., a word lover, learning enthusiast, and private tutor of reading and writing in the verdant little town of Hilo, Hawaii. For writing tips, online learning, essay guidance, and more, please visit www.HiloTutor.com. Disclaimer: Word meanings presented here are expressed in plain language and are limited to common, useful applications only. Readers interested in authoritative and multiple definitions of words are encouraged to check a dictionary. Likewise, word meanings, usage, and pronunciations are limited to American English; these elements may vary across world Englishes. Answers to review questions: 1. A 2. C