noun HSK 4
Traditional 級別
bié
level · rank · grade · classification

Meaning

级别 refers to a hierarchical position, classification, or tier within a system. It's commonly used to describe levels in organizations, skill rankings, quality grades, security clearances, or any structured hierarchy. The word combines 级 (grade/level) with 别 (category/distinction) to emphasize systematic classification.

Usage

This word is frequently used in formal and professional contexts such as government, military, corporate, and educational settings. Common in phrases like '高级别' (high-level), '不同级别' (different levels), and when discussing job titles, product quality grades, or administrative hierarchies. Native speakers use it when precise ranking or classification matters.

Examples

  1. 01
    这次会议是最高级别的国际峰会。
    Zhè huì shì zuì gāo bié de guó fēng huì.
    This meeting is the highest-level international summit.
  2. 02
    不同级别的员工享受不同的福利待遇。
    tóng bié de yuán gōng xiǎng shòu tóng de dài .
    Employees of different ranks enjoy different benefits and treatment.

Characters

Measure words

  • 三个级别

Common collocations

  • 级别
    gāo bié
    high-level
  • 不同级别
    tóng bié
    different levels
  • 提升级别
    shēng bié
    to raise the level/rank
  • 安全级别
    ān quán bié
    security level

Origin

级 originally referred to steps or stairs, metaphorically extending to hierarchical levels. 别 means to distinguish or separate. Together they create a compound meaning 'ranked category' or 'distinguished level.'

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