Definition

Noun A sentiment of envy, resentment, or antagonism held by members of one social or economic class toward another class. It refers to the collective emotions arising from perceived differences in status, power, or wealth.

Usage

This term is used in sociological and political contexts to describe group-based emotions related to social stratification. It typically describes a one-way or mutual sentiment between distinct classes.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The politician's speech was designed to appeal to class feeling among industrial workers.
  • Historians analyzed the class feeling between the aristocracy and the rising merchant class in 18th-century England.
  • The policy exacerbated class feeling by visibly benefiting the wealthy.

Advanced Usage

• "to exploit/arouse/stir up class feeling": To deliberately use or incite these emotions for political or social purposes.
  • The leader was accused of exploiting class feeling to gain popular support.
• "deep-seated/bitter class feeling": Describes a strong and long-standing sentiment.
  • The economic crisis revealed deep-seated class feeling in the society.

Variants and Related Words

• Class consciousness (n): Awareness of one's own social or economic class and its interests, often in relation to other classes. While related, "class consciousness" is more about awareness and identity, whereas "class feeling" emphasizes the emotional component (envy, resentment).
• Class antagonism (n): Active opposition or hostility between social classes.
• Class resentment (n): A feeling of indignant displeasure or persistent ill will held by one class toward another. This is a close synonym focusing specifically on the resentment aspect.

Synonyms

• Class resentment
• Social antagonism
• Group envy

Related Phrases

• Class conflict (n): A broader term for the tension or active struggle between social classes, of which "class feeling" can be a contributing emotional factor.
• Class divide (n): The significant gap or difference between social classes.

Noun

1. feelings of envy and resentment of one social or economic class for toward another