The lexical meaning of the word "classic" is very diverse. It is used in various fields and at the same time is both book and colloquial. This definition is used when talking about art, literature, poetry, and when they use a special term, and also pronounce it in a figurative sense. The set of lexical meanings of the word "classic" will be discussed in the article.
Book word
As such, the lexeme under study means:
- Relating to classicism, which in this case is understood as an education system based on the study of the classical languages of antiquity, which include Greek and Latin. For example, we can talk about a classical gymnasium or classical education.
- One that is universally recognized, created by a classic. For example, classical work in mathematics, classical music.
- Typical of anything, typical. For example, a classic pattern of slackness.
However, this is not all interpretation. Further, other meanings of the word "classic" will be considered.
Special term
In this case, the following lexical meanings of the word "classic" are meant:
- In history and art - one that refers to classicism, by which they mean the following: firstly, this is a direction in literature where the rules of ancient poetics are observed; secondly, this is a direction of fine arts, where antique motifs prevail.
- In history, anything related to both ancient Greek and Roman history or culture.
- Related to the study of ancient languages and literature, such as classical languages.
There are other interpretations. What does the word "classic" mean when it is used at the household level? This will be discussed below.
In speaking
In this case, the lexical meaning of the word "classic" will be slightly different. It will mean the following:
- Ordinary, familiar, traditional. For example, a classic geranium on a windowsill.
- In a figurative sense - this is very good, wonderful.
Next, the origin of the studied word will be considered. This will contribute to a better understanding of its lexical meaning.
Etymology
The adjective "classic" has its roots in the Latin language. There is the word classicus. Previously, they called the citizens who in ancient Rome belonged to the first class. According to the reform of Servius Tullius, these were wealthy Romans, mostly patricians: horsemen, centuriates. Their property was valued at no less than 100 thousand copper aces.
Classicus is derived from the noun classis. Its meaning is "rank", "class", which again was related to the Roman population. This noun, in turn, comes from the Latin verb calare, which translates as "convene." It is directly related to the pre-Indo-European form of kele in the meaning of "call", "scream".
Examples of offers
Among them, you can consider the following:
- According to critics, this sculpture shows a bizarre, strange decoration, which contradicts the Hellenic concept of the body, with strictly verified, classical forms of ancient Greek figures.
- Bribing a tax inspector for the so-called optimization of tax liability is a classic example of administrative corruption.
- Both antique and German classical philosophy are recognized as the most fruitful periods in the history of philosophical thought.
- The interior of his house stood out for its simplicity and beauty, characteristic of the classical style.
- When some classical works are often used as musical accompaniment at various ceremonies, it gradually begins to turn them into ritual cliches.
Synonyms
In the word "classic" you can find synonyms such as:
- textbook;
- antique;
- traditional;
- characteristic;
- habitual;
- ordinary;
- typical;
- a great;
- great;
- good;
- strict;
- correct;
- best;
- ancient;
- antique;
- exemplary;
- delightful;
- amazing;
- great;
- brilliant;
- marvelous;
- a sight for sore eyes;
- divine;
- unmatched;
- beautiful;
- astonishing;
- flawless;
- indescribable;
- present;
- no words;
- Latin;
- exponential;
- excellent;
- Ancient Greek
- classic
- canonical;
- attic.
Next, one of the aspects of using the studied token will be considered in more detail.
In relation to the university
In the world literature, as applied to universities, the epithet "classical" is used when they say:
- Medieval educational institution.
- One where they are taught in accordance with the Liberal Arts program. It provides ample opportunities for personal development, teaches critical thinking. It is not narrow specialization that is acquired, but extensive knowledge, including interdisciplinary. Much attention is paid to the humanitarian and social aspects.
- A university, where the foundation is a liberal arts education, based on the study of ancient classics.
- Humboldt Research. Its concept provides for a close connection between learning and research.
The term "classical university" has gained particular popularity in post-Soviet Russia, in other former Soviet republics, in Eastern Europe. It acts as a marker of a specific zone of educational space. For example, in Russia, such, along with others, is a university in Cheboksary (Chuvashia), bearing the name of I.N. Ulyanova. In order to highlight their position, in 2001 they merged into the Association of Classical Universities, which includes forty-seven universities.
Thus, if we talk about the narrow lexical meaning of the word, then in Russia a university that is among the participants in this association is classical.