upper class
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upper class
The highest social class in a society, characterized by exceptional wealth, power, and influence.
Die Oberschicht des Landes trifft sich bei exklusiven gesellschaftlichen Anlässen.
The country's upper class meets at exclusive social events.
The word is made up of 'Ober-' (upper part) and 'Schicht' (layer, stratum). So it literally describes the 'upper layer' of society.
Reichtum und Einfluss sind typische Merkmale der Oberschicht.
Wealth and influence are typical characteristics of the upper class.
'Oberschicht' (upper class) is almost always used with the definite article 'die', because it refers to a specific, defined group in a society.
Die Oberschicht hat oft Zugang zu besserer Bildung.
The upper class often has access to better education.
Common verbs used with this noun are 'zur Oberschicht gehören' (to belong to the upper class), 'in die Oberschicht aufsteigen' (to rise into the upper class), or 'Teil der Oberschicht sein' (to be part of the upper class).
Seine Familie gehört seit Generationen zur Oberschicht.
His family has belonged to the upper class for generations.
elite
'die Elite' and 'die Oberschicht' both refer to groups with a lot of influence or a special position. But 'die Elite' usually means the best or most powerful people in a particular field, for example in science, sports, politics, or business. 'die Oberschicht' means a social class in society, often connected with wealth, background, and power. The words can be confused because both stand at the top of an order. As a guide: 'Elite' fits better with achievement or influence in a field, while 'Oberschicht' fits better with social status and money.
Der Artikel beschreibt, wie die Oberschicht in dieser Stadt lebt.
The article describes how the upper class lives in this city.
Nach vielen Erfolgen gehört die Forscherin zur Elite ihres Fachs.
After many successes, the researcher belongs to the elite in her field.