What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
age
Example
She is 25 years old, which is a young age. [age: noun]
Example
The Bronze Age was a period in ancient history. [age: noun]
Example
He has aged gracefully over the years. [aged: verb]
generation
Example
The baby boomer generation refers to those born after World War II. [generation: noun]
Example
The digital generation grew up with technology as an integral part of their lives. [generation: noun]
Example
The trait for blue eyes was passed down through generations in her family. [generations: plural noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Age is a more common word than generation in everyday language, as it is used to describe individual experiences and is a more versatile term. Generation is more commonly used in sociological or cultural contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between age and generation?
Both age and generation are neutral in formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
