What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
youngun
Example
The youngun was crying for his mother. [youngun: noun]
Example
Hey there, youngun! How can I help you today? [youngun: noun]
Example
He's a talented youngun with a bright future ahead of him. [youngun: adjective]
juvenile
Example
The juvenile offender was sentenced to community service. [juvenile: adjective]
Example
His juvenile behavior was unacceptable in a professional setting. [juvenile: adjective]
Example
The zoo has a special exhibit for juvenile animals. [juvenile: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Juvenile is more commonly used than youngun in formal and scientific contexts, while youngun is more commonly used in informal and colloquial settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between youngun and juvenile?
Youngun is a more informal and colloquial term, while juvenile is more formal and commonly used in legal or scientific contexts.