Minors: meaning, definitions and examples

This term is most commonly used in legal and formal contexts to refer to individuals under the age of legal adulthood.

• Minors are not allowed to purchase alcohol.
• Parents are responsible for the actions of their minors.

This term is primarily used to emphasize that someone is below the legal age for specific activities, like drinking or voting. It carries a slightly negative connotation.

• She was caught driving while underage.
• Selling alcohol to underage individuals is illegal.

This word is used in legal, formal, and sometimes psychological contexts, often when discussing youth in the context of criminal behavior or development.

• The juvenile was detained for shoplifting.
• Juvenile delinquency is a serious issue.

This word refers to young people collectively or the period in life when one is young, often used in a general, positive, or neutral context.

• The youth today are very tech-savvy.
• Youth programs help build community.

Used in legal or formal contexts to refer to individuals who are not yet adults. It generally applies to those under the age of 18.

• Selling alcohol to minors is illegal.
• The film is restricted to viewers and minors are not allowed.

Refers to individuals engaged in studying at an educational institution. Applicable to learners of all ages, but often used for those in higher education or university.

• The students are preparing for their final exams.
• As a medical student, he spends a lot of time in the library.

Mainly used in the context of education, referring to students, especially in primary and secondary school settings. More common in British English.

• The teacher asked the pupils to hand in their homework.
• The school has over 500 pupils.

A general term for young human beings, typically those under the age of 13. Commonly used in everyday conversation and less formal contexts.

• Please keep an eye on the children while they play.
• Children often need more sleep than adults.