Expressions for classification: be categorized into, be classified as, fall into, and more thumbnail

Expressions for classification: be categorized into, be classified as, fall into, and more

2025-10-30

Meaning

This article explains expressions used to show classification or grouping, such as be categorized into, be classified as, and fall into. They all describe the act of organizing things or people into specific groups, types, or categories based on shared characteristics.

Grammar and Usage

These expressions usually appear in the passive voice, because the subject (thing/person) is being classified by someone or something else.

  • be categorized into + plural noun → grouped into categories
  • be classified as + noun → assigned to a specific type or label
  • fall into + category/type → naturally belong to a certain group

Examples:

  • Books in the library are categorized into sections.
  • The whale is classified as a mammal.
  • These issues fall into three main types.

Comparison and Mapping

Expression Core Meaning Formality Typical Use Example
be categorized into divided into several distinct categories medium general use, academic writing The products are categorized into four groups.
be classified as officially identified as a type high science, law, formal classification This species is classified as endangered.
fall into naturally belong to a type or group medium general and natural grouping These problems fall into two main categories.
be grouped into gathered and divided based on features medium general, organizational Students are grouped into three teams.
be divided into physically or logically separated into parts medium general, structural The report is divided into five sections.
be sorted into arranged by certain criteria medium–low data, lists, practical contexts Files are sorted into folders by date.
be assigned to officially placed in a category or group high roles, systems, tasks Each user is assigned to a permission group.

Common Phrases

  • be categorized into groups
  • be classified as a type
  • fall into categories
  • be grouped into teams
  • be divided into sections
  • be sorted into folders
  • be assigned to roles

Collocations

Verb Phrase Example
be categorized into Data are categorized into three levels.
be classified as This document is classified as confidential.
fall into These customers fall into two main age groups.
be divided into The novel is divided into three chapters.
be sorted into The emails are sorted into folders automatically.

Examples

  1. The survey results were categorized into five groups.
  2. These materials are classified as hazardous.
  3. The issues fall into three general areas.
  4. The class was divided into small discussion groups.
  5. Students were grouped into teams for the project.
  6. All records were sorted into alphabetical order.
  7. Each employee was assigned to a department.
  8. The data were categorized into income brackets.
  9. These foods are classified as high in fiber.
  10. The findings fall into several distinct themes.
  • be grouped into
  • be divided into
  • be sorted into
  • be classified as
  • fall into
  • be assigned to
  • be organized into

Antonym

  • be mixed with
  • be combined with
  • be merged into one
  • lack classification