Mmm... when I think of Swords. I think of this rule set based on what I learned in college.
Dagger: Stabby weapon. Can slash, but generally best done with the tip so it doesn't get stuck if you plan on a deep cut.
Short sword. Only slightly longer than a dagger. Normally a PDW.
------ Sword. around two to three feet. usually a bastard sword, chineese broad sword. Normal sword.
Broad Sword - Three feet long to three and a half. Pretty thick, but not stupidly thick. Stilleto design normally. Some Claymores.
Long Sword - Three to four feet long. Thiner blade but generally three inches thick. but I don't remember seeing anything as thin as a katana till the Renaissance era. Three feet versions can be used in one hand, and sometimes features a one and a half hand handle. Four foot versions have a two handed handle and are used in long sweeping and fluid motions, normally chained.
Rapier - PDW. Exteremely thin weapon, designed to flex easily. Normally three feet in length. Primary use is stab, can slash, but only with the tip much like a dagger, normally used to make people flinch, cut arteries, or to blind people. But I definately wouldn't be trying to parry a Long sword with it.
I would run away from the dude with the long sword.
But the real reason why I say the rapier requires more training is that soldiers train for a month with the long sword, And it doesn't take to long to get it's form down. But the rapier people will train for a good few years, and a good chunk of that time is spent stabbing at various targets, aiming directly for the red marker, which takes a long time to get down.