What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
matured
Example
She has matured into a responsible and thoughtful adult. [matured: verb]
Example
The cheese has matured for six months, giving it a rich and complex flavor. [matured: past participle]
adult
Example
He became an adult when he turned 18 and could vote and join the military. [adult: noun]
Example
This movie is rated R and is only for adult audiences. [adult: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Adult is a more common word than matured in everyday language, as it is a term used to describe legal status and a stage of life. Matured is less common and is typically used in more specific contexts, such as personal growth or the aging of food or beverages.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between matured and adult?
Both matured and adult can be used in formal or informal contexts, but adult is more versatile and can be used in a wider range of situations, including legal, medical, and educational contexts.