student asking question

When can I say “grow up” to other person?

teacher

Native speaker’s answer

Rebecca

Great question. In this clip the character is drunk so she is not using the phrase grow up correctly. It is usually used to tell someone that they need to begin to behave or think sensibly and realistically. If you say “grow up” to someone, you are telling the person to stop behaving like a child or to stop acting immaturely. It can be used both as a phrase and as an exclamation in anger. Ex: You need to grow up, and responsibly! Ex: Once I graduated University I knew that I needed to grow up. Ex: He needs to grow up if he wants me to marry him. Ex: Oh, grow up Luke!

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