noun
ruling class; governing class
Refers to the social stratum that holds political or economic power. Often used in discussions of politics, history, or sociology.
支配層の決定が国民の生活に大きな影響を与える。
Decisions made by the ruling class greatly affect the lives of the people.
歴史的に見ると、支配層はしばしば特権を
Historically, the ruling class has often enjoyed privileges.
エリート emphasizes individual excellence or selection, whereas 支配層 focuses on the group that holds power.
Compound of 支配 (control, rule) and 層 (stratum, layer).