An approach to classify different defect records by mapping plain language phrases to a taxonomy. The approach includes a method that includes receiving, by at least one computing device, a defect record associated with a defect. The method further includes receiving, by the least one computing device, a plain language phrase or word. The method further includes mapping, by the least one computing device, the plain language phrase or word to a taxonomy. The method further includes classifying, by the least one computing device, how the defect was at least one of detected and resolved using the taxonomy.