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B2 adjective #1,200 most common 14 min read

status

Top 1,200

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips status in 30 Seconds

Explanation status in your Level:

At the A1 level, the word 'status' is most commonly encountered in the context of technology and social media. You might see it on a computer screen or a phone app. For example, when you are online, your 'status' might be 'Online' or 'Away.' It is a simple label that tells people what you are doing right now. You might also see it when you buy something online; the 'status' of your order could be 'Sent' or 'Delivered.' At this level, you don't need to worry about complex social meanings. Just think of it as a 'label' or 'info' about a situation. It is a noun that helps you understand the current state of a simple thing. You might hear a teacher ask, 'What is the status of your homework?' which just means 'Is it finished?' It is a useful word for basic communication about tasks and technology. Remember that it is usually a noun. You can think of it like a light: green means 'go,' red means 'stop.' That light is the status of the traffic. It is a very direct and helpful word for beginners to learn because it appears in so many digital places.

At the A2 level, you begin to see 'status' used in more official ways. You might encounter it on forms, especially the phrase 'marital status.' This asks if you are married or single. It is an important word for filling out applications for a school, a job, or a visa. You also start to use it to talk about progress in a more structured way. For example, 'The status of the project is good.' This means the project is moving forward as planned. You might also hear it in relation to social media 'status updates,' where people write a short message about their day. At this level, you should understand that 'status' describes a condition that can change. It is not permanent. A person's status can change from 'single' to 'married,' and a project's status can change from 'started' to 'finished.' It is a noun that helps you give more specific information about a person or a situation. You can use it to be more precise than just saying 'it is okay' or 'it is done.' Using 'status' makes your English sound a bit more organized and clear.

At the B1 level, you should be comfortable using 'status' in both professional and social contexts. You will use it to discuss the progress of tasks at work or school, often using phrases like 'Can you give me a status update?' or 'I'm checking the status of my application.' You also begin to understand the concept of 'social status.' This is the idea that some people have more respect or power in society than others. You might talk about how someone's job gives them a high status. You will also encounter the word in news reports, perhaps about the 'legal status' of immigrants or the 'economic status' of a country. At this level, you are moving beyond simple labels and starting to use 'status' to describe more complex ideas. You should be aware of common collocations like 'current status,' 'official status,' and 'high status.' You might also notice that the word can be used as an adjective in phrases like 'status symbol,' which refers to something expensive that shows you are successful. Understanding these different layers of meaning will help you participate in more varied conversations and understand more challenging texts.

At the B2 level, you are expected to use 'status' with nuance and precision. You understand that it refers to both a hierarchical rank and a situational condition. You can discuss 'socio-economic status' (SES) and how it affects people's lives, or talk about the 'status quo'—the way things currently are in society or politics. You are familiar with the word's use in formal documents and can use it correctly in professional emails to request or provide detailed updates. You also recognize the psychological aspect of status, such as 'status anxiety' or being 'status-conscious.' At this level, you should be able to distinguish 'status' from similar words like 'stature' or 'prestige.' You understand that while 'status' is an official rank, 'prestige' is the admiration that comes with it. You can use the word in complex sentence structures, such as 'The diplomat's immunity was a direct result of his official status.' You are also aware of the different pronunciations in British and American English. Your ability to use 'status' in these varied and sophisticated ways shows that you have a strong grasp of both the practical and abstract elements of the English language.

At the C1 level, your use of 'status' is sophisticated and context-aware. You can use it to analyze complex social structures, discussing how 'ascribed status' (status you are born with) differs from 'achieved status' (status you earn). You are comfortable using the word in academic writing to describe the 'legal status' of entities or the 'ontological status' of concepts in philosophy. You understand the subtle power dynamics involved when someone 'pulls rank' or asserts their status in a conversation. You can also use the word metaphorically, such as discussing the 'status of a theory' in the scientific community. Your vocabulary includes advanced collocations like 'elevated status,' 'diminished status,' and 'non-profit status.' You are sensitive to the register of the word, knowing when it sounds too formal and when it is perfectly appropriate. You can write detailed reports that use 'status' to categorize various stages of a multi-year project, and you can engage in high-level debates about whether the 'status quo' should be maintained or challenged. Your mastery of the word allows you to express subtle distinctions in rank, condition, and reputation with ease.

At the C2 level, you have a near-native command of 'status' and all its implications. You can use it with effortless precision in any setting, from a legal courtroom to a sociological lecture. You are aware of the historical evolution of the word and its Latin roots, which informs your understanding of its use in phrases like 'status quo ante.' You can navigate the most complex linguistic environments, such as interpreting the 'diplomatic status' of international envoys or the 'tax-exempt status' of global organizations. You are also adept at using the word in creative and rhetorical ways, perhaps discussing the 'ephemeral status of fame' or the 'symbolic status' of a landmark. You understand the deep psychological and sociological theories surrounding status, such as those by Max Weber, and can incorporate these ideas into your own discourse. Your use of the word is characterized by perfect collocations and an intuitive sense of its weight and tone. Whether you are drafting a formal policy document or engaging in a nuanced philosophical discussion, you use 'status' as a precise tool to convey exact meanings about hierarchy, condition, and the nature of reality.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

status in 30 Seconds

Status defines a person's rank or position in society or a professional hierarchy, often linked to prestige and respect.
It also refers to the current state or progress of a situation, such as a project's completion level or a patient's health.
Commonly used in professional settings for 'status updates' and on official forms for 'marital' or 'legal' status.
Can function as an attributive noun, acting like an adjective in phrases like 'status symbol' or 'status seeker'.

The word status is a multi-faceted term that fundamentally describes the relative position or condition of something within a specific framework. When we talk about status in a social context, we are referring to the invisible ladder of hierarchy that exists in every society, organization, or group. It is the measure of prestige, honor, and influence that an individual holds compared to others. For example, a CEO has a higher professional status than an intern, not just because of their salary, but because of the authority and respect commanded by their role. This aspect of status is often tied to achievements, wealth, or inherited titles. People use the word to discuss social mobility, class structures, and the pursuit of recognition. It is a deeply sociological concept that explains why people behave in certain ways to maintain or elevate their standing among their peers.

Social Standing: This refers to the level of respect or importance a person has in a community. It is often determined by occupation, education, and lifestyle choices.

The celebrity enjoyed a high social status that granted her access to exclusive events and influential circles.

Beyond social rank, status is frequently used to describe the current state or progress of a situation. In professional environments, you will often hear requests for a 'status update.' This usage is more technical and objective, focusing on facts and timelines rather than prestige. It answers the question, 'Where are we now?' Whether it is the status of a legal case, the status of a medical patient, or the status of a software development project, the word acts as a snapshot of reality at a given moment. It implies that the situation is dynamic and subject to change. Understanding this distinction is crucial for B2 learners, as the word shifts seamlessly between the abstract world of social hierarchy and the concrete world of project management and logistics.

Legal Condition: In law, status refers to the official standing of a person, such as their citizenship, marital status, or employment eligibility.

He had to provide documentation to prove his legal status before he could start his new job in the foreign country.

In modern digital life, the word has taken on a specific meaning related to social media. A 'status' or 'status update' is a short post where a user shares their current thoughts, location, or activity. This usage bridges the gap between the two primary definitions: it is both a report on one's current state and a tool for managing one's social image. By sharing a status, users are often signaling their lifestyle and interests to their network, which in turn affects their perceived social status. This dual nature makes the word incredibly versatile and ubiquitous in contemporary English. Whether you are filling out a form about your marital status or checking the delivery status of a package, the word is an essential part of navigating modern life.

Situational Progress: This refers to the current stage of a process, such as 'pending,' 'completed,' or 'in progress.'

The online tracking system showed that the delivery status of my order was 'out for delivery.'

Owning a luxury sports car is often seen as a status symbol that indicates great wealth.

The diplomat's diplomatic status gave him immunity from certain local laws while serving abroad.

Using the word status correctly requires an understanding of its grammatical role and the context of the sentence. Most commonly, it functions as a noun, but it can also act as an adjective in specific phrases. When using it to describe social rank, it often follows adjectives like 'high,' 'low,' 'social,' or 'professional.' For instance, 'She worked hard to improve her social status.' In this context, the word is abstract and refers to a concept of hierarchy. It is important to note that 'status' is an uncountable noun when referring to prestige in general, but can be countable when referring to specific official conditions (though 'statuses' is relatively rare in common speech, it is used in technical or database contexts).

Collocation: Marital Status: Used on official forms to ask if someone is single, married, divorced, or widowed.

Please indicate your marital status by checking the appropriate box on the application form.

When referring to the progress of a task, 'status' is often paired with verbs like 'check,' 'update,' 'report,' or 'monitor.' A common professional phrase is 'What is the status of...?' followed by a project or task. This is a direct way to ask for a summary of current progress. In these instances, 'status' is synonymous with 'state' or 'condition.' For example, 'I need a status report on the marketing campaign by Friday.' Here, the word is very practical and business-oriented. It suggests a need for clarity and data. Using the word in this way demonstrates a high level of professional English proficiency, as it moves beyond simple 'how is it going?' questions into more formal, structured inquiries.

Collocation: Status Quo: A Latin phrase meaning the existing state of affairs, especially regarding social or political issues.

The activists were determined to challenge the status quo and bring about meaningful social change.

Another important usage is the attributive use, where 'status' describes another noun. The most famous example is 'status symbol.' A status symbol is an object—like an expensive watch, a designer handbag, or a prestigious degree—that is intended to show others that the owner has high social standing. Another example is 'status seeker,' describing someone who is overly concerned with their social rank. In these cases, 'status' functions as an adjective, modifying the noun that follows it. This is a very common pattern in English where nouns are used to describe other nouns. Mastering these compound phrases will help you sound more natural and precise in your descriptions of people and their motivations.

Collocation: Economic Status: Refers to a person's financial standing and access to resources within a society.

The study examined how a family's socio-economic status affects a child's educational outcomes.

The hospital provided a regular update on the patient's medical status to the concerned family members.

The software allows users to change their online status to 'away' or 'do not disturb.'

The word status is incredibly common across various domains of life, from the digital world to the highest levels of government. In the realm of social media, 'status' is a core concept. Platforms like Facebook and LinkedIn were built around the idea of sharing a 'status update.' Even though the terminology has shifted slightly toward 'posts' or 'stories,' the underlying concept remains: you are broadcasting your current state to your network. You will hear people say things like, 'Did you see her status update?' or 'I need to update my professional status on LinkedIn.' In this context, the word is synonymous with a personal announcement or a reflection of one's current life circumstances.

Corporate Environment: In offices, 'status' is the language of project management. Managers ask for status reports to ensure everything is on track.

During the Monday morning meeting, each team leader gave a brief status update on their current projects.

In legal and governmental contexts, 'status' is used with high precision. You will hear it in discussions about immigration, where a person's 'residency status' or 'visa status' determines their right to live and work in a country. It is also used in family law regarding 'marital status' (single, married, etc.). In these settings, the word is not about prestige but about official, legally recognized categories. If you are traveling or moving abroad, you will encounter this word frequently on forms and during interviews with officials. Hearing 'What is your current status?' in an airport or embassy is a request for your legal standing, not your social popularity.

Sociology and Academia: Professors and researchers use 'status' to discuss social class, power dynamics, and historical hierarchies.

The professor explained how feudalism was a system based on inherited social status and land ownership.

In everyday conversation, you might hear the word used more informally to describe someone's reputation or 'vibe.' For example, 'He’s really worried about his status in the group' implies a concern with being liked or respected. You will also hear it in consumer culture, specifically regarding 'status symbols.' Advertisements often appeal to our desire for higher status by suggesting that buying a certain product will make us look more successful. Whether it's a luxury watch or a specific brand of coffee, the marketing often revolves around the 'status' the product confers. Understanding these different environments—from the cold formality of a legal office to the aspirational world of advertising—will help you grasp the full range of the word's meaning.

Customer Service: When you call a company about an order, they will check the 'status' of your request in their system.

I called the airline to check the status of my refund, but they said it was still being processed.

The diplomat's special status allowed him to bypass the long security lines at the airport.

The non-profit organization recently achieved tax-exempt status from the government.

One of the most frequent mistakes learners make with the word status is confusing it with similar-sounding words like 'statue' or 'stature.' A 'statue' is a physical sculpture made of stone or metal (e.g., the Statue of Liberty). 'Stature' refers to a person's physical height or their metaphorical importance and reputation (e.g., 'a man of great stature'). While 'stature' and 'status' are related in meaning—both can describe importance—'status' is more about one's official or relative rank, whereas 'stature' is more about the quality of being respected. Saying 'He has a high statue' is a common error that can lead to confusion or amusement.

Status vs. State: 'State' is often used for physical conditions (state of mind, state of repair), while 'status' is for official or hierarchical conditions.

Correct: What is the status of my application? Incorrect: What is the statue of my application?

Another common error involves the pronunciation and pluralization of the word. As mentioned, American and British English differ in their vowel sounds for 'status.' Learners should pick one and be consistent. Regarding the plural, many learners are unsure whether to say 'statuses' or 'stati.' In English, the correct plural is 'statuses.' The word 'stati' is not used. However, because 'status' is often used as an uncountable noun (e.g., 'He is seeking status'), learners sometimes try to use it with 'a' or 'an' incorrectly. You would not usually say 'He has a status'; instead, you would say 'He has a high status' or 'He has achieved a certain status.'

Confusing with 'Station': In older English, 'station' was used to mean social rank. Today, 'status' is the standard word for this concept.

Incorrect: He is a man of high station. Correct: He is a man of high social status.

Finally, learners often struggle with the preposition that follows 'status.' When referring to a position within a group, we use 'in' (e.g., 'status in the company'). When referring to a condition relative to a rule, we might use 'under' (e.g., 'status under the law'). A common mistake is using 'of' when 'in' is more appropriate, or vice versa. For example, 'What is your status of the project?' is slightly awkward; 'What is the status of the project?' is correct, but 'What is your status in the project?' would mean your role. Paying attention to these small functional words will significantly improve the naturalness of your English.

Overusing 'Status': Sometimes 'progress' or 'update' is more natural. Don't use 'status' for every single question about how something is going.

Instead of: 'What is the status of your lunch?' try: 'How is your lunch?' or 'Is your lunch ready?'

The company was criticized for its 'status-conscious' culture that prioritized titles over actual productivity.

She was granted refugee status after a long and difficult legal process.

To truly master the word status, it is helpful to understand its synonyms and how they differ in nuance. One of the closest synonyms is 'rank.' While 'status' is broad and can include prestige and respect, 'rank' is often more specific to a formal system, like the military or a corporate hierarchy (e.g., 'the rank of Captain'). Another similar word is 'standing.' 'Standing' often refers to one's reputation or position within a community over a period of time (e.g., 'a member in good standing'). It feels slightly more personal and less 'official' than status. 'Position' is another alternative, often used to describe a specific job title or a physical location, but it can also overlap with status in phrases like 'social position.'

Status vs. Prestige: 'Prestige' is the respect and admiration someone gets. 'Status' is the actual rank they hold. You can have high status but low prestige if people don't respect you.

While his status as a manager was clear, he lacked the prestige needed to truly lead the team effectively.

In the context of situational progress, synonyms include 'state,' 'condition,' and 'situation.' 'State' is very common and often interchangeable with status (e.g., 'the state of the economy'). However, 'status' often implies a more official or tracked condition. 'Condition' is frequently used for physical health or the quality of an object (e.g., 'the car is in excellent condition'). 'Situation' is more general and describes the set of circumstances someone finds themselves in. If you are describing a complex set of events, 'situation' is better; if you are giving a specific update on a task, 'status' is the professional choice. Choosing the right word depends on whether you want to emphasize the hierarchy, the reputation, or the simple facts of the matter.

Status vs. Condition: Use 'condition' for health or physical objects. Use 'status' for official progress or social rank.

The mechanic checked the condition of the engine, while the owner checked the status of the repair bill.

Finally, consider the word 'caste' or 'class' when discussing social status. 'Caste' refers to a very rigid, often hereditary system of social stratification. 'Class' is a broader term usually based on economic factors. 'Status' is the most flexible of these, as it can be earned, lost, or changed relatively quickly compared to one's social class. By understanding these alternatives, you can avoid repeating the word 'status' too often in your writing and speaking, which will make your English sound more sophisticated and varied. For example, instead of saying 'high status' every time, you could use 'high standing,' 'lofty position,' or 'significant prestige' depending on the exact nuance you wish to convey.

Status vs. Level: 'Level' is often used for skill or quantity (e.g., 'reading level'). 'Status' is for rank or official state.

After reaching the highest level in the game, his status among other players rose significantly.

The new trade agreement puts both nations on an equal economic status.

The athlete's amateur status meant he could not accept prize money from the competition.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

Neutral

Informal

Child friendly

Slang

Fun Fact

The words 'state,' 'statue,' 'stature,' and 'station' all share the same Latin root 'stare.' They all describe different ways of 'standing'—whether it's a physical pose (statue), a social position (status), or a location (station).

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ˈsteɪ.təs/ or /ˈstæt.əs/

US /ˈsteɪ.təs/

The stress is on the first syllable: STAY-tus.

Rhymes With

hiatus flatus afflatus apparatus (in some pronunciations) gratis (near rhyme) latest (near rhyme) greatest (near rhyme) waiters (near rhyme)

Common Errors

Pronouncing it like 'statue' (STACH-oo).
Putting the stress on the second syllable (stay-TUS).
Using a short 'a' like 'cat' in American English (STAT-us).
Confusing the vowel sound with 'state' (it is similar, but the 'us' ending is distinct).
Mumbling the 't' so it sounds like 'staus'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

The word is common, but its meaning can change depending on the context (social vs. technical).

Writing 4/5

Using it correctly in professional reports requires knowledge of specific collocations.

Speaking 3/5

Pronunciation varies between UK and US English, which can be confusing for learners.

Listening 2/5

It is usually clear in speech, especially in phrases like 'status update'.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

rank state level position social

Learn Next

hierarchy prestige stratification standing condition

Advanced

ontological ascribed sovereignty immunity posthumous

Grammar to Know

Attributive Nouns

In 'status symbol,' the noun 'status' acts like an adjective to describe 'symbol'.

Uncountable vs. Countable

'He has high status' (uncountable) vs. 'The system tracks multiple statuses' (countable).

Prepositional Phrases

We say 'status of the project' but 'status in the company'.

Latin Plurals in English

While some Latin words use '-i' (cactus/cacti), 'status' uses the standard English '-es' (statuses).

Adjective Comparison

We use 'higher' or 'lower' status, not 'more' or 'less' status.

Examples by Level

My online status is 'away' right now.

Mon statut en ligne est 'absent' en ce moment.

Noun used to describe a digital state.

What is the status of my order?

Quel est le statut de ma commande ?

Common question for checking progress.

The status of the game is 'paused'.

Le statut du jeu est 'en pause'.

Simple noun describing a temporary state.

Check your flight status on the screen.

Vérifiez le statut de votre vol sur l'écran.

Noun used in a travel context.

Her status says she is happy today.

Son statut dit qu'elle est heureuse aujourd'hui.

Refers to a social media update.

Is the status of the light green?

Le statut du feu est-il vert ?

Using 'status' to describe a signal.

The battery status is low.

Le statut de la batterie est faible.

Noun describing the condition of a device.

Please update your status.

S'il vous plaît, mettez à jour votre statut.

Imperative sentence using 'status' as the object.

You must write your marital status on this form.

Vous devez écrire votre état civil sur ce formulaire.

Standard collocation for official documents.

The project status is 'in progress'.

Le statut du projet est 'en cours'.

Used to describe the stage of a task.

He has a high status in his village.

Il a un statut élevé dans son village.

Refers to social rank or respect.

The doctor gave us a status report on the patient.

Le médecin nous a donné un rapport sur l'état du patient.

Refers to a medical condition update.

I need to check the status of my visa application.

Je dois vérifier le statut de ma demande de visa.

Refers to an official legal process.

The company's financial status is very strong.

Le statut financier de l'entreprise est très solide.

Describes the economic condition of an entity.

She changed her status to 'married' on Facebook.

Elle a changé son statut en 'mariée' sur Facebook.

Refers to social media and personal life.

What is the status of the broken elevator?

Quel est le statut de l'ascenseur en panne ?

Asking about the repair progress of an object.

The new law will change the legal status of many workers.

La nouvelle loi changera le statut juridique de nombreux travailleurs.

Refers to official rights and categories.

Owning a big house is a status symbol for some people.

Posséder une grande maison est un symbole de statut pour certaines personnes.

Noun used as an adjective (attributive noun).

We need a status update on the marketing campaign by noon.

Nous avons besoin d'une mise à jour sur la campagne de marketing d'ici midi.

Common professional request for information.

The athlete lost his amateur status after taking money from a sponsor.

L'athlète a perdu son statut d'amateur après avoir accepté de l'argent d'un sponsor.

Refers to a specific category of competition.

He is very concerned about his social status among his peers.

Il est très préoccupé par son statut social parmi ses pairs.

Refers to prestige and social hierarchy.

The status of the peace talks remains uncertain.

Le statut des pourparlers de paix reste incertain.

Describes the condition of a complex negotiation.

The museum has been granted charitable status by the government.

Le musée s'est vu accorder le statut d'organisme de bienfaisance par le gouvernement.

Refers to a tax or legal classification.

They are trying to maintain the status quo in the company.

Ils essaient de maintenir le statu quo dans l'entreprise.

Latin phrase used as a noun meaning 'current state'.

The researcher studied the socio-economic status of urban families.

Le chercheur a étudié le statut socio-économique des familles urbaines.

Academic term combining social and economic factors.

The diplomat's special status gave him immunity from local prosecution.

Le statut spécial du diplomate lui a donné l'immunité contre les poursuites locales.

Refers to legal protections tied to a role.

The project manager requested a comprehensive status report for the board.

Le chef de projet a demandé un rapport d'avancement complet pour le conseil d'administration.

Formal professional usage.

Many people suffer from status anxiety in highly competitive societies.

Beaucoup de gens souffrent d'anxiété liée au statut dans les sociétés très compétitives.

Psychological term for the fear of losing rank.

The status of the treaty is currently being debated in parliament.

Le statut du traité est actuellement débattu au parlement.

Refers to the official state of a legal agreement.

She achieved the status of a world-class pianist through years of practice.

Elle a atteint le statut de pianiste de classe mondiale grâce à des années de pratique.

Refers to a high level of professional achievement.

The software update will fix the bug affecting the delivery status.

La mise à jour du logiciel corrigera le bogue affectant le statut de livraison.

Technical usage in a business context.

The organization is fighting to improve the status of women in the workplace.

L'organisation se bat pour améliorer le statut des femmes sur le lieu de travail.

Refers to general social and professional standing.

The sociological study analyzed the correlation between education and ascribed status.

L'étude sociologique a analysé la corrélation entre l'éducation et le statut assigné.

Technical sociological term.

The court's ruling clarified the legal status of digital assets in inheritance cases.

La décision du tribunal a clarifié le statut juridique des actifs numériques dans les cas d'héritage.

Precise legal application of the word.

He was careful not to flaunt his elevated status in front of his old friends.

Il faisait attention à ne pas faire étalage de son statut élevé devant ses vieux amis.

Refers to the social etiquette of high rank.

The status of the negotiations was compromised by a leak to the press.

Le statut des négociations a été compromis par une fuite dans la presse.

Describes how external factors affect a situation's state.

The non-profit sought to achieve tax-exempt status to maximize its funding.

L'organisation à but non lucratif a cherché à obtenir le statut d'exonération fiscale pour maximiser son financement.

Specific administrative/legal classification.

The philosopher questioned the ontological status of abstract mathematical objects.

Le philosophe a remis en question le statut ontologique des objets mathématiques abstraits.

Highly academic and abstract usage.

The company's status as a market leader was threatened by the new startup.

Le statut de l'entreprise en tant que leader du marché était menacé par la nouvelle startup.

Refers to competitive position in an industry.

Her status within the academic community was cemented by her latest publication.

Son statut au sein de la communauté académique a été consolidé par sa dernière publication.

Refers to professional reputation and rank.

The intricate dance of diplomacy often hinges on the perceived status of the participants.

La danse complexe de la diplomatie repose souvent sur le statut perçu des participants.

Nuanced observation of social and political dynamics.

The restoration of the status quo ante was the primary goal of the peace treaty.

Le rétablissement du statu quo ante était l'objectif principal du traité de paix.

Use of a formal Latin legal phrase.

The celebrity's status was so pervasive that her every move was scrutinized by the global media.

Le statut de la célébrité était si omniprésent que chacun de ses mouvements était scruté par les médias mondiaux.

Describes the overwhelming nature of extreme social rank.

The legal battle centered on the status of the disputed territory as a sovereign entity.

La bataille juridique était centrée sur le statut du territoire contesté en tant qu'entité souveraine.

Refers to the fundamental legal identity of a place.

His status as a visionary was only recognized posthumously by the scientific establishment.

Son statut de visionnaire n'a été reconnu qu'à titre posthume par l'establishment scientifique.

Refers to long-term historical reputation.

The software's status as open-source allowed for rapid innovation and community collaboration.

Le statut du logiciel en tant qu'open-source a permis une innovation rapide et une collaboration communautaire.

Describes the functional and legal framework of a technology.

The shifting status of the dollar as the world's reserve currency has profound economic implications.

Le statut changeant du dollar en tant que monnaie de réserve mondiale a de profondes implications économiques.

Refers to global economic hierarchy.

The author explores the tension between individual identity and the status imposed by society.

L'auteur explore la tension entre l'identité individuelle et le statut imposé par la société.

Abstract literary and sociological analysis.

Synonyms

rank standing position prestige stature condition

Antonyms

insignificance lowliness

Common Collocations

social status

marital status

status update

status symbol

legal status

current status

high status

economic status

tax-exempt status

online status

Common Phrases

What's the status?

— A common way to ask for a progress report on a task. It is direct and professional.

What's the status on the budget proposal?

In good status

— Meaning that all requirements are met and there are no problems. Often used in legal or membership contexts.

His license is in good status with the medical board.

Achieve status

— To reach a certain level of importance or recognition. It implies hard work or success.

She worked for years to achieve status in the legal profession.

Loss of status

— When someone loses their rank or the respect they once had. It is often a negative social event.

The scandal led to a significant loss of status for the politician.

Elevated status

— A position that is higher than normal or higher than others. It suggests special treatment.

The rare book was given an elevated status in the library's collection.

Pending status

— A state where a decision or action is waiting to be completed. Common in applications.

Your application is currently in pending status.

Official status

— A rank or condition that is recognized by an authority or government. It is formal.

The language was granted official status in the region.

Refugee status

— The legal recognition that a person is a refugee and entitled to protection. It is a critical legal term.

They were finally granted refugee status after two years.

Status report

— A formal document or presentation that explains the progress of a project. It is standard in business.

Please prepare a status report for the meeting.

Socio-economic status

— A measure of a person's work experience and of an individual's or family's economic and social position. It is used in research.

Socio-economic status is often linked to health outcomes.

Often Confused With

status vs statue

A statue is a stone or metal carving. Status is a rank or condition.

status vs stature

Stature is physical height or metaphorical importance. Status is official rank.

status vs state

State is a general condition. Status is often an official or tracked condition.

Idioms & Expressions

"Status quo"

— The current state of affairs, especially social or political ones. It often implies a resistance to change.

The government wants to maintain the status quo rather than risk reform.

formal

"Status symbol"

— A possession that is taken to indicate a person's high social or professional status.

A corner office is a major status symbol in this company.

neutral

"Pull rank"

— To use one's higher status or position to make someone do something or to get an advantage. (Related to status).

The manager pulled rank and made us stay late to finish the report.

informal

"Climb the social ladder"

— To work toward achieving a higher social status. (Related to status).

He's always trying to climb the social ladder by befriending wealthy people.

neutral

"Keep up with the Joneses"

— To try to maintain the same social status and possessions as one's neighbors. (Related to status).

They bought a new car just to keep up with the Joneses.

informal

"A big fish in a small pond"

— Someone who has high status but only within a small or unimportant group. (Related to status).

He was a big fish in a small pond in his hometown, but in the city, he's nobody.

informal

"Lord it over someone"

— To act as if you are better or more important than someone else because of your status.

Just because she got promoted doesn't mean she has to lord it over us.

informal

"Know one's place"

— To accept one's lower status and behave accordingly. (Often used negatively).

In the old days, people were expected to know their place in the hierarchy.

neutral

"The pecking order"

— The informal hierarchy or status levels within a group.

There is a clear pecking order in the office, and the senior partners are at the top.

informal

"Above one's station"

— Acting as if one has a higher status than they actually do. (Old-fashioned but still used).

The servants were accused of acting above their station.

formal

Easily Confused

status vs statue

Similar spelling and sound.

A statue is a physical object (a sculpture). Status is an abstract concept (rank or state).

The statue of the hero stands in the park, reflecting his high status in history.

status vs stature

Very similar sound and related meaning.

Stature is about the quality of being respected or physical height. Status is about the official position.

Despite his small physical stature, his status as a leader was unquestioned.

status vs station

Shared root and historical overlap.

Station is usually a place (train station). In old English, it meant social rank, but 'status' is used now.

He waited at the station, thinking about how to improve his social status.

status vs static

Similar prefix 'stat-'.

Static means not moving or changing. Status is a noun for a condition, which can be dynamic.

The status of the project has been static for three weeks; nothing has changed.

status vs statute

Similar spelling.

A statute is a written law. Status is a legal standing or condition.

The new statute changed the legal status of the land.

Sentence Patterns

My [noun] status is [adjective].

My online status is busy.

What is the status of [noun]?

What is the status of my order?

He has a [adjective] status in [group].

He has a high status in the club.

[Noun] is a status symbol.

A fast car is a status symbol.

The status of [noun] remains [adjective].

The status of the treaty remains uncertain.

Due to his [adjective] status, [clause].

Due to his diplomatic status, he was not arrested.

The [adjective] status of [noun] was [verb].

The legal status of the company was challenged.

Maintaining the status quo [verb] [noun].

Maintaining the status quo prevents necessary innovation.

Word Family

Nouns

Verbs

Adjectives

How to Use It

frequency

Very high in both spoken and written English.

Common Mistakes

Using 'statue' instead of 'status'. → What is the status of my application?
A statue is a sculpture; status is a condition or rank.
Saying 'He has a high stature' to mean rank. → He has a high social status.
Stature usually refers to physical height or a general quality of importance, not official rank.
Using 'stati' as the plural. → We need to check the different statuses of the projects.
The plural of status is statuses.
Saying 'What is your status of the project?' → What is the status of the project?
The project has a status; you don't 'own' the status of the project.
Using 'status' for physical health in a casual way. → How is he feeling today?
'Status' is very formal for health. Use 'condition' or just ask how someone is.

Tips

Professionalism

In business, use 'What is the status of...' instead of 'How is...'. It sounds more professional and focused on results.

Pluralization

Always use 'statuses' if you need to talk about more than one. Never use 'stati' or 'statues'.

Status Symbols

Learn the phrase 'status symbol' to talk about why people buy expensive things. It's a very common topic in English exams.

Vowel Sounds

Focus on the long 'A' sound (like 'stay') for the American pronunciation. It's the most widely understood version.

Social Standing

Use 'standing' as a synonym for 'status' when you want to talk about someone's reputation in a community.

Reports

A 'status report' should be short and use bullet points. It's about giving facts quickly.

Legal Status

Remember that 'legal status' is a very serious term. Use it carefully when talking about immigration or rights.

Online Presence

Your 'online status' tells people if you are available to talk. Use 'away' or 'busy' to manage your time.

Status Quo

Use 'status quo' when you want to sound more academic or sophisticated in a debate about change.

Don't Overuse

Don't use 'status' for everything. For a person's health, 'condition' is often better. For a person's height, use 'stature'.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of a 'STAtue' that 'STAnds' in a high 'STAtus' position. Both 'statue' and 'status' come from the idea of standing still in a certain place.

Visual Association

Imagine a ladder. Each step on the ladder represents a different status. The higher you are, the more status you have. Or imagine a loading bar on a computer screen—that is the status of a download.

Word Web

Rank Condition Social Update Symbol Legal Marital Prestige

Challenge

Try to use the word 'status' in three different ways today: once about your work/school progress, once about a social media post, and once about someone's job.

Word Origin

The word 'status' comes from the Latin word 'status,' which means 'a standing, position, or condition.' This Latin noun is derived from the past participle stem of 'stare,' meaning 'to stand.'

Original meaning: In Latin, it literally meant the act of standing or the manner of standing. It evolved to mean the 'state' or 'condition' of something.

It is part of the Indo-European family, specifically the Italic branch, and is related to many English words starting with 'st-' that involve standing or staying.

Cultural Context

Be careful when discussing someone's 'legal status' or 'socio-economic status,' as these can be sensitive or private topics.

In the UK, status is historically linked to the class system (aristocracy vs. working class), while in the US, it is more often linked to the 'American Dream' and financial success.

Status Quo (a famous British rock band) 'Status Anxiety' (a popular book by philosopher Alain de Botton) The 'Status Update' feature on Facebook that changed how we communicate.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Social Media

Update your status
Check her status
Status post
Online status

Business/Work

Status report
Project status
Status update
Current status

Legal/Official

Marital status
Legal status
Residency status
Tax status

Medical

Patient status
Stable status
Medical status
Health status

Sociology

Social status
Socio-economic status
Status symbol
Status quo

Conversation Starters

"What is the current status of the project you are working on?"

"Do you think social status is still important in modern society?"

"What is considered a status symbol in your home country?"

"How often do you check the status of your online orders?"

"Is it difficult to change the status quo in your workplace?"

Journal Prompts

Describe a time when you felt your social status changed, either for better or worse.

What are the most common status symbols in your culture, and why do people want them?

Write about a project you are currently doing and give a detailed status report on it.

Do you think social media has made people too obsessed with their status? Explain why.

Reflect on the 'status quo' in your life. What things would you like to change and why?

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

The correct plural is 'statuses.' While the word comes from Latin, it follows the standard English rule for nouns ending in '-s.' 'Stati' is incorrect and never used in English.

A status symbol is an object or possession that shows other people you are wealthy or successful. Examples include luxury cars, expensive watches, or designer clothing.

In American English, it is 'STAY-tus.' In British English, it can be 'STAY-tus' or 'STAH-tus.' Both are correct, but 'STAY-tus' is more common globally.

No, 'status' is almost always a noun. However, it can be used as an adjective (attributive noun) to describe other nouns, like in 'status update' or 'status report.'

It is a Latin phrase that means 'the current state of things.' It is often used when talking about social or political situations that people don't want to change.

Rank is usually part of a formal, numbered system (like in the army). Status is broader and includes social respect and official conditions.

Use it in a professional setting when you want to tell your boss or team how a project is going. It's also used on social media to share what you're doing.

It is usually uncountable when talking about social prestige ('He has high status'). It is countable when talking about specific categories or technical states ('The system has five different statuses').

It is your official condition regarding marriage. On forms, you usually choose between single, married, divorced, or widowed.

It is a term used by researchers to describe a person's position in society based on their income, education, and job.