What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
pubescent
Example
She started to feel self-conscious about her changing body as she entered her pubescent years. [pubescent: adjective]
Example
The doctor explained that the acne was a common side effect of the pubescent stage. [pubescent: noun]
adolescent
Example
He struggled with his identity during his adolescent years. [adolescent: adjective]
Example
The book explores the challenges faced by adolescents in today's society. [adolescents: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Adolescent is more commonly used than pubescent in everyday language. Adolescent is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while pubescent is less common and may be considered more technical or formal.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between pubescent and adolescent?
While pubescent is typically associated with a more technical or formal tone, adolescent is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.