Classy

adj. thoughtful, kind everyday

What it means

Stylish or admirable in a way that shows restraint and sound social judgment.

Reach for it when praising taste or conduct that impresses without showing off

Sending a private note to thank the losing team was a classy move.

Words to choose between 6

By register, from playful at the top to literary at the bottom. Tap a word to see when it fits.
playful
everyday
warm
professional
formal
  • playful

    swanky

    Fits when flashy upscale appeal is being enjoyed

    Careful Swanky celebrates showiness, almost the opposite of understated class.

  • everyday

    stylish

    Fits when fashionable visual appeal is all you mean

    Careful Style alone does not make a decision admirable or considerate.

  • warm

    gracious

    Fits when kindness and dignity toward others matter most

    Careful Gracious does not necessarily imply style or sophistication.

  • professional

    sophisticated

    Fits when worldly polish and complexity are relevant

    Careful Sophisticated may sound aloof and can praise complexity rather than judgment.

  • professional

    tasteful

    Fits when restraint and aesthetic judgment deserve praise

    Careful Tasteful can sound clinical when the point is gracious conduct.

  • formal

    elegant

    Fits when refined appearance or execution is the main quality

    Careful Elegance says little about generosity or judgment in behavior.

Opposites 3

  • tacky
  • crass
  • shabby

Common phrases 3

  • classy move

    Inviting the substitute to join the photograph was a classy move.

  • look classy

    The simple navy cover managed to look classy without gold lettering.

  • classy response

    His classy response praised the winner and owned the mistake.

Definitions and examples are written for this site. How words are chosen Recording: Wodencafe, American accent, from Wikimedia Commons, CC0 Updated