What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
age
Example
The Age of Enlightenment was a significant period in European history. [Age: noun]
Example
She is at the age where she can start attending school. [age: noun]
Example
We are living in an age of technological advancement. [age: noun]
epoch
Example
The Industrial Revolution marked a new epoch in human history. [epoch: noun]
Example
The fall of the Berlin Wall signaled the end of an epoch in European politics. [epoch: noun]
Example
The Jurassic epoch was characterized by the dominance of dinosaurs. [epoch: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Age is a more common word than epoch in everyday language, as it covers a broader range of contexts and is more versatile in its usage.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between age and epoch?
Epoch is a more formal word than age, as it is often used in academic or scientific contexts and implies a greater level of significance or impact on history.