Adolescent Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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adolescent
[หรฆd.ษหles.ษnt ]
Definition
stage of development
An adolescent is a young person who is in the process of developing from a child into an adult. This stage of life is characterized by physical, emotional, and cognitive changes as the individual transitions from childhood to adulthood.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| adolescent |
Typically used in more formal or medical contexts to describe a person between childhood and adulthood. This term can also emphasize the developmental stage.
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| teenager |
Commonly used in everyday language to describe someone who is between 13 and 19 years old. This term is more informal and widely used in family, social, and educational settings.
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| youth |
A broad term that can refer to young people in general, often emphasizing energy and potential. It can sometimes carry a slightly negative connotation when discussing perceived lack of experience or immaturity.
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| young adult |
Refers to individuals in their late teens to early twenties. Often used in contexts related to more mature responsibilities and transitions like college, work, and early stages of independence.
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Examples of usage
- Adolescents often experience mood swings as their hormones fluctuate.
- During adolescence, teenagers begin to assert their independence from their parents.
- Adolescents may struggle with identity formation and self-esteem.
- Peer relationships become increasingly important during adolescence.
- Adolescents may engage in risky behaviors as they seek independence and autonomy.
Translations
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Origin of 'adolescent'
The word 'adolescent' comes from the Latin word 'adolescere', which means 'to grow up'. It has been used in English since the 15th century to refer to the transitional stage between childhood and adulthood. Adolescence as a distinct stage of development was first recognized in the early 20th century by psychologists such as G. Stanley Hall.