young woman
Noun: A female human being in the period of life between childhood and full adulthood, typically characterized by youthfulness and often implying a degree of social respectability or refinement.
The term "young woman" is a standard, neutral, and respectful way to refer to a female in her late teens or early adulthood. It is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts. It focuses on age and gender without inherent connotations about marital status, occupation, or behavior.
- The young woman at the front desk was very helpful.
- She has grown into a talented and confident young woman.
- Several young women volunteered to lead the community project.
- The phrase can be used in a descriptive or narrative style to introduce or refer to a female character, often emphasizing her youth and gender as relevant to the context.
- The story follows a young woman who moves to the city to pursue her dreams.
- Young lady: A very similar term, often perceived as slightly more formal or polite. It can also be used by an older person addressing a younger female directly (e.g., "Excuse me, young lady").
- Girl: Generally refers to a female child or adolescent. Using "young woman" instead of "girl" for a post-adolescent female is often considered more respectful and accurate.
- Miss: A title used before the name of an unmarried woman or girl. It is related but serves a different grammatical function.
- Lady (when referring to a specific, often younger, individual: "that lady over there")
- Female (more clinical or biological in tone)
- Lass (chiefly British or Scottish dialect)
- Young man
- Old woman
- Elderly lady
The term specifically denotes age and gender. It does not describe marital status (unlike "miss" or "Mrs."), profession (like "doctor" or "student"), or any specific character trait. Its meaning is derived from the combination of "young" (not old) and "woman" (adult female human).
-
a young woman
-
a young lady of 18
-
