Word: Of Age
Definition: The phrase "of age" means that someone has reached a certain age, usually the age at which a person is considered an adult and can make their own decisions. In many countries, this age is 18 or 21.
Usage Instructions: - "Of age" is often used in legal contexts or when discussing rights and responsibilities. - It is usually used as an adjective and is often followed by a number to indicate the specific age.
Example: - "She is 18 years of age, so she can vote in the elections." - "He is now of age and can sign contracts by himself."
Advanced Usage: - In formal writing or legal documents, you might see "of legal age" which specifically refers to the age at which a person can engage in legal contracts, marry, or vote. - "Of age" can also be used to refer to maturity or readiness for certain responsibilities, not just a numerical age.
Word Variants: - "Age" can be used as a noun (the number of years someone has lived), or as a verb (to become older). - The phrase "of legal age" is a variant that emphasizes the legal implications of being of age.
Different Meaning: - "Of age" specifically relates to having reached a certain age and does not refer to being "aged" or old in the general sense.
Synonyms: - Adult - Mature - Grown-up - Legal age
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs: - There are not many idioms directly related to "of age," but understanding the concept of reaching maturity is often discussed in phrases like "come of age," which means to reach adulthood or maturity. - A relevant phrasal verb is "grow up," which means to become an adult or mature.