Definition

1. Noun:
   • Conflict between social or economic classes: A state of opposition, tension, or struggle between different classes in a society, typically driven by conflicting economic interests and social positions.
   • Specifically, between the capitalist and proletariat classes: In Marxist theory, this refers to the fundamental and inevitable conflict between the bourgeoisie (who own the means of production) and the proletariat (the working class who sell their labor).

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The historian analyzed the period as one of intense class war fueled by industrial exploitation.
  • The politician's rhetoric was accused of inciting class war by pitting the wealthy against the poor.

Advanced Usage

• "to wage class war": To actively engage in or promote conflict between classes.
  • The radical group sought to wage class war through widespread strikes.
• "the rhetoric of class war": Language or discourse designed to highlight or exacerbate class conflict.
  • The debate was dominated by the rhetoric of class war, with little discussion of compromise.

Variants and Related Words

• Class warfare (n): A synonymous term for class war, often used in political and sociological discourse.
  • The essay was a critique of modern economic policies as a form of class warfare.
• Class struggle (n): A closely related concept emphasizing the ongoing conflict and tension between social classes over time.
  • Marxist theory centers on the concept of class struggle as the engine of historical change.

Synonyms

• Class conflict: A more formal or academic synonym.
• Social strife: A broader term for conflict within society, which can include class-based conflict.

Related Phrases

• War between the classes: A descriptive phrase equivalent to class war.
  • The novel depicts a dystopian future defined by a brutal war between the classes.

Noun

1. conflict between social or economic classes (especially between the capitalist and proletariat classes)