What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
adult
Example
In most countries, you become an adult at the age of 18. [adult: noun]
Example
This movie is only suitable for adult audiences. [adult: adjective]
mature
Example
She is a very mature young woman for her age. [mature: adjective]
Example
The fruit needs time to mature before it can be harvested. [mature: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Adult is a more common word than mature, as it is used in legal and official contexts. However, mature is still a commonly used word in personal and informal contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between adult and mature?
Adult is a more formal word than mature, as it is often used in legal and official contexts. Mature is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
