The historical rating system described a ship's place in the sailing battlefleet rather than its quality. A third rate was the practical fighting ship that navies could field in serious numbers. Its label did not imply that the vessel or its crew was inferior. Understanding that distinction clears away a modern linguistic trap before comparing cost, availability, and combat value.
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Why a third rate was not a third-class warship
The rating name can sound dismissive today, but third rates were the Age of Sail's most common and useful fighting battleships.