In
knowledge representation, a
class is a collection of individuals or objects. A class can be defined either by
extension, or by
intension, using what is called in some ontology languages like
OWL. If we follow the
Type–token distinction, the ontology is divided into individuals, who are real worlds objects, or events, and types, or classes, who are sets of real world objects. Class expressions or definitions gives the properties that the individuals must fulfill to be members of the class. Individuals that fulfill the property are called
Instances.