Older: meaning, definitions and examples

Generally used to refer to someone who has lived for more years than someone else. It can be used in both formal and informal contexts.

• My older brother is already in college.
• She looks older than her actual age.

Often used to describe someone who has more authority or respect due to their age, often within a family or community. It is usually more formal.

• He is an elder statesman in the community.
• My elder sister always gives me good advice.

Primarily used to describe someone who is older in age, position, or rank, often within a professional or organizational hierarchy. It can also refer to elderly people in a respectful manner.

• She was promoted to a senior position in the company.
• We should respect our senior citizens.

Used when referring to someone's behavior, character, or emotional development rather than their physical age. It indicates a higher level of maturity and is neutral to positive in tone.

• She is more mature than the other kids her age.
• With each experience, he becomes more mature.

Used to compare the age of one person or thing with another, usually in a neutral or positive context.

• John is older than Mary.
• This building is older than that one.

Typically used to refer to people, often in a respectful manner, indicating that someone is senior in age, experience, or rank. Most commonly used in familial or tribal contexts.

• She is the elder sister.
• The village elder made the decision.

Often used in formal or professional settings to indicate someone with higher rank, status, or age, but can be used in a neutral or respectful manner.

• He is a senior officer in the company.
• Senior citizens receive a discount.

Specific to group or organization contexts, used to describe a person who holds a higher rank or has been part of the group for a long time.

• She is a senior member of the faculty.
• The senior member of the team led the project.