In the Confusables series, we talk about words that are often confused with each other or other confusing aspects of the English language.
This one is easy as I promised.
Do you remember the difference between economic and economical?
Well, what is the difference between classic and classical?
When you are talking about some piece of music, which one will you use? Only one is possible, or both can be used?
We can use “classic” to refer to something of high quality because it has a traditional style.
Using “classical” before a noun especially music and art means that it belongs to a old formal tradition.
That’s what I can get from the dictionary and mostly I think there is no significance difference between these two words.
Classic, Classical, Classics, the Classics Don’t panic! It isn’t as hard as it looks! classic (adj) 1. of the highest quality; the most important of its kind Have you read the classic novel War and Peace by Tolstoy? 2. elegant, but simple/traditional in style/design; not affected by changes in fashion a classic navy suit Some people drive only/collect classic cars (cars which are no longer made, but which are still popular). 3. very typical; something you would expect to find You can see a classic (also classical) example of poor communication between parents and children in many families. classical (adj)… Read more »