Understanding the Difference Between Bourgeoisie and Bourgeois

Understanding the Difference Between Bourgeoisie and Bourgeois

Understanding “Bourgeoisie” and “Bourgeois”

Both “Bourgeoisie” and “Bourgeois” come from French words. They talk about people with money and things like houses, jobs, and education. Here is how these words are different:

History of the Words

The word “Bourgeoisie” is about the group of people who were rich in the towns a long time ago. This word came from the Middle Ages in Europe. “Bourgeois,” on the other hand, is a word that is used to talk about one person from this group. This word came later and it is often used today.

How to Use Them

Bourgeoisie: This word is a noun. We use it when we talk about the group of people who have money and often care about nice things. They are not working-class or very rich, but in the middle.

• The bourgeoisie loves art and music.
• In the 1800s, the bourgeoisie became very important.
• Many changes in towns were started by the bourgeoisie.
• Politicians often try to make the bourgeoisie happy.
• The bourgeoisie likes to live in nice houses.

Bourgeois: This word is an adjective. It can also be a noun for one person from this group. People use it to talk about someone who cares about money and nice things.

• He has a bourgeois lifestyle with a big car and a big house.
• She enjoys bourgeois hobbies like shopping and dining out.
• His thinking is very bourgeois, focused on comfort.
• The family has bourgeois values of hard work and saving money.
• He is a bourgeois who loves fancy chairs and tables.

Trick to Remember the Difference

Remember that “Bourgeoisie” is like the “Community” or “Group” and has more people. “Bourgeois” can be used for an individual or to describe a way of life.

Summary of Usage

“Bourgeoisie” is a noun for a social group with lots of people who have money and nice things. “Bourgeois” is an adjective or a noun used to describe one person or the lifestyle and values of people who like wealth and comfort. Remember, bourgeoisie = group, and bourgeois = individual or lifestyle.