Mature: meaning, definitions and examples

Used again to clarify a slight difference: This usage often describes behavior, especially indicating responsibility or thoughtfulness, and can also describe non-human subjects like cheese or wine that have reached the right age for consumption.

• He handled the situation in a very mature way.
• This cheese tastes best when it's mature.
• Mature trees can better withstand strong winds.

Refers to a person who is legally and biologically fully grown. Typically used in a formal context or when differentiating from children or adolescents.

• Only adults are allowed to watch this movie.
• He transitioned from a child to an adult over the years.
• This book is intended for adult readers.

Informal way of referring to an adult. Often used by children or in a casual setting.

• Ask a grown-up if you need help.
• I can't wait to be a grown-up.
• Grown-ups have so much responsibility.

Commonly used to describe fruits or vegetables that are ready to be eaten. Can also metaphorically describe ideas or situations that are fully developed and ready for action.

• The apples are ripe and ready to be picked.
• The time is ripe for a major change in the company.
• She waited until the moment was ripe to propose her idea.

Used to describe a person who behaves in a way that is appropriate for their age, often showing good judgment. It can also refer to something that is fully developed or grown.

• She is very mature for her age and handles difficult situations well.
• The garden looks beautiful now that the trees are mature.

Describes a person who can be trusted to do what is right or to take care of important tasks. It implies reliability and accountability.

• She is very responsible and always completes her work on time.
• As the eldest sibling, he felt responsible for taking care of his younger brothers.

Typically used to refer to someone who makes good decisions and shows good judgment. It reflects practicality and reasoning.

• It's sensible to save money for emergencies.
• Wearing a coat in cold weather is very sensible.

Often used to describe someone or something that has reached a state of full development, particularly over time. It can also refer to someone gaining life experience or becoming more responsible.

• Over the years, he has matured into a confident and capable leader.
• Their cheese has matured perfectly in the cellar.

Used when referring to personal or emotional growth, reaching a state of full development, or when describing someone as sensible and responsible.

• He has matured a lot over the past year.
• She is very mature for her age.
• The investment will mature in five years.

Used when discussing the process of change and improvement over time, encompassing a wide range of activities, projects, and personal growth.

• They plan to develop the downtown area.
• She has developed new skills in her job.
• The plot of the story develops slowly.

Used specifically when referring to fruits and other produce reaching a stage of optimal flavor and texture, also metaphorically can describe something reaching peak condition.

• Leave the tomatoes to ripen on the windowsill.
• His skills have ripened with experience.
• The cheese needs time to ripen.

Used when talking about physical growth, increase in size or quantity, or progression over time. It can also refer to personal development but in a broader sense.

• Children grow very quickly.
• The company continues to grow.
• She has grown as a person since her travels.