A class action lawsuit is a legal proceeding initiated by a group of individuals who have suffered similar harm or injury. Synonyms for the term "class action" include collective action, group litigation, mass action, and representative action. Collective action refers to a lawsuit by a group of individuals who share similar claims against the same defendant. Group litigation refers to a suit brought by a group of individuals who are seeking compensation for a common injury or harm. Mass action is a lawsuit that involves a large number of plaintiffs who have suffered similar damages. Representative action is a legal case that is brought on behalf of a group of individuals by one or more representatives.