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rating

classification / rank / audience measurement / credit grade
[C/U] Both
pl: ratings

A rating is a quantitative or qualitative label used to standardize value, quality, or suitability. It transforms subjective experience or complex data into a simplified, comparable metric. In consumer contexts, it carries a connotation of social proof and trust. A high rating acts as a seal of approval, while a low rating serves as a warning. Unlike a 'grade', which is often an academic measurement of performance, a 'rating' usually implies a position within a competitive hierarchy or a standard scale. In media and finance, the term shifts from quality to measurement or risk. In television, it is a cold statistic of reach; in credit, it is a projection of reliability. In content moderation (movies/games), it functions as a boundary for appropriateness rather than a measure of artistic merit.

Countable when referring to a specific score or classification ('a five-star rating' or 'an R rating'). Uncountable when discussing the general metric of audience measurement for TV shows ('The show is low in the ratings' or 'rating is everything in broadcasting').

💬Casual Conversation

🎬Tuesday afternoon, Leo is lounging in his room while Ryan is at work.
Leo

this new horror game has a mid rating on steam. you still down to play?

Leo
Ryan
Ryan

bet.

💡
Leo uses the slang term 'mid' (meaning mediocre or average) to describe the game's rating. Ryan responds with 'bet', a common slang term meaning 'yes' or 'I agree', reflecting his oblivious and brief communication style.

Meanings

Nounclassification

A classification or ranking of someone or something based on a comparative scale.

"The hotel received a five-star rating for its exceptional service."

Nounrank

A measurement of the audience size for a television program or radio show.

"The season finale achieved the highest rating in the network's history."

Nounaudience measurement

The assigned value or grade given to a financial instrument, such as a bond, indicating its creditworthiness.

"The agency downgraded the country's credit rating to 'junk' status."

Nouncredit grade

A classification of a movie, game, or book based on its suitability for different age groups.

"The film was given an R rating due to strong language and violence."

Related Words

Last Updated: June 9, 2026Report an Error