Adulthood: meaning, definitions and examples

This term refers to the period of life after reaching the legal age of majority, where an individual is considered a full-grown adult. It is used in a more general and formal sense.

• She moved out of her parents' house when she reached adulthood.
• Adulthood comes with many responsibilities.

This word emphasizes the quality or state of being fully developed in the emotional, intellectual, or physical sense. It is often used to highlight responsibility, wisdom, and the ability to handle complex situations.

• His actions showed a high level of maturity.
• Maturity is about how you handle life's challenges.

This informal term is often used in conversations, especially when speaking to or about children. It emphasizes the idea of being older and more responsible but not necessarily in a formal manner.

• When I was a child, I always wanted to be a grown-up.
• Ask a grown-up to help you with that.

Refers to the stage of life when a person is fully grown and typically implies maturity and responsibility.

• Entering adulthood comes with many new responsibilities
• Adulthood is often marked by starting full-time work or forming one's own family

Formal term often used in legal or official documents to indicate the age at which a person gains full legal rights and responsibilities.

• He reached the age of majority and inherited the property
• Upon reaching majority, individuals can legally sign contracts

Used to describe the age at which a person is legally considered an adult and can engage in activities like voting or drinking, based on jurisdiction-specific laws.

• In many countries, the legal age to vote is 18
• You must reach the legal age to purchase alcohol