Lifetime: meaning, definitions and examples

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lifetime

 

[ ˈlaɪftaɪm ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

duration of existence

The duration of a person's life or of an institution or other entity. It can refer to the lifespan of a person, an organization, a project, etc. Lifetime is the period of time during which something is functional or exists.

Synonyms

duration, existence, lifespan.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
lifetime

This appears to be a repetition. Please see the previously defined context for 'lifetime'.

lifespan

Describes the typical or expected length of time something, especially a living organism, is expected to live. Often used in scientific or biological contexts.

  • The lifespan of a butterfly is very short.
  • Humans have an average lifespan of around 70-80 years.
duration

Used to describe the length of time an event, process, or state lasts. It is often used in formal or technical contexts.

  • The duration of the movie is two hours.
  • The contract is valid for the duration of the project.
existence

Refers to the state of living or being present in a particular place. This term has a broad philosophical or general context and can describe abstract concepts.

  • The existence of the unicorn is just a myth.
  • His existence in the city went unnoticed.

Examples of usage

  • He dedicated his lifetime to helping others.
  • The lifetime of a business can be unpredictable.
  • She has achieved so much in her lifetime.
  • The warranty covers the product for its lifetime.
  • I will cherish this memory for a lifetime.
Context #2 | Noun

award for achievement

An award or honor given to someone in recognition of their exceptional achievements or contributions during their lifetime.

Synonyms

distinction, honorary award, recognition.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
lifetime

Use this word when referring to the duration of a person's life or the period when someone occupies a particular role.

  • She achieved a lot during her lifetime
  • He worked as a teacher for his entire lifetime
honorary award

Use this term when referring to an award given to recognize someone's contributions or achievements, usually without them having met the regular qualifications.

  • The university gave him an honorary award for his contributions to science
  • She was presented with an honorary award for her work in the community
recognition

This word is used when acknowledging someone's achievements or contributions, often in more general terms.

  • She earned international recognition for her novel
  • He finally received recognition for his years of service
distinction

Best suited for situations where you're talking about excellence or being recognized for something special, often used in an academic or professional setting.

  • She graduated with distinction
  • He received a distinction for his outstanding work in research

Examples of usage

  • She received a lifetime achievement award for her work in the film industry.
  • This prestigious prize is a lifetime recognition of your dedication and talent.
  • The lifetime award ceremony was attended by many famous personalities.

Translations

Translations of the word "lifetime" in other languages:

🇵🇹 vida útil

🇮🇳 आयु

🇩🇪 Lebensdauer

🇮🇩 masa hidup

🇺🇦 тривалість життя

🇵🇱 żywotność

🇯🇵 寿命

🇫🇷 durée de vie

🇪🇸 vida útil

🇹🇷 ömür

🇰🇷 수명

🇸🇦 عمر

🇨🇿 životnost

🇸🇰 životnosť

🇨🇳 寿命

🇸🇮 življenjska doba

🇮🇸 ending

🇰🇿 өмір сүру ұзақтығы

🇬🇪 ცხოვრების ხანგრძლივობა

🇦🇿 ömür

🇲🇽 vida útil

Etymology

The word 'lifetime' originated in the late 16th century, combining 'life' and 'time'. It has been used to refer to the duration of a person's life or the existence of an entity. Over time, 'lifetime' has also been associated with awards or honors given to individuals for their achievements. The concept of a lifetime has been significant in various cultures and fields, reflecting the value of time and existence.

See also: afterlife, alive, life, lifebuoy, lifeless, lifelessly, lifelessness, lifeline, lifelong, lifemode, lifesaver, lifespan, lifestyle, lifeway.