Definition

Noun: A class of accommodations on a ship, train, or airplane that is less expensive and offers fewer amenities than first class or business class.

Usage

"Economy class" is used to specify the standard, most affordable tier of seating or accommodation in commercial passenger transport. It is a fixed compound noun. The word "economy" here refers to the economical price, not to the general economic system.

Examples

• We always fly economy class to save money on our vacations.
• The airline offers more legroom in its premium economy class section.
• Tickets for economy class on the train sell out quickly during the holidays.

Advanced Usage

• "economy-class" (adjective): Used attributively to describe a noun. It is often hyphenated in this form.
  • We had an economy-class ticket but were upgraded to business class.
  • The economy-class cabin is located at the rear of the aircraft.

Variants and Related Words

• Coach class (n.): A common synonym, especially in American English for air travel.
• Tourist class (n.): An older, largely synonymous term.
• Premium economy class (n.): A separate class of service positioned between standard economy and business class, offering more space and amenities for a higher fare.
• First class (n.): The most expensive and luxurious class of accommodation.
• Business class (n.): A class of accommodation more expensive than economy, designed for business travelers, typically offering more space and better service.

Synonyms

Coach class, tourist class, standard class, cattle class (informal, humorous, or derogatory)

Related Phrases

• To fly economy (class): The verb "fly" is commonly used with "economy (class)".
  • I usually fly economy on short-haul flights.
• To travel economy (class): A more general verb that can be used for any mode of transport.
  • We travelled economy class on the overnight train.

Noun

1. a class of accommodations on a ship or train or plane that are less expensive than first class accommodations