General terms:
* Classification: This is the most common and general term, referring to the process of organizing things into groups based on shared characteristics.
* Categorization: Similar to classification, this term emphasizes the act of placing things into categories.
* Sorting: This term is used when the process involves physically arranging items into different groups.
* Grouping: This term is broad and can refer to any process of putting things together based on shared characteristics.
More specific terms:
* Clustering: Used in data analysis and machine learning, clustering refers to the process of grouping data points into clusters based on their similarity.
* Taxonomy: Used in biology, this term refers to the science of classification, specifically of living organisms.
* Typology: Used in various fields, including sociology and psychology, this term refers to a system of classification based on types or categories.
* Analysis: When the process involves identifying similarities and differences to draw conclusions or gain insights, "analysis" can be used.
The best term to use will depend on the specific situation.