Young adult: meaning, definitions and examples

Typically refers to individuals in their late teens to mid-twenties, often used in contexts related to literature, media, and psychological development.

• Young adult fiction is a popular genre among readers aged 16 to 24.
• Young adults often face challenges transitioning into the workforce.

Usually used in medical, psychological, or educational contexts to describe someone who is in the developmental stage between childhood and adulthood, approximately between the ages of 10 and 19.

• Adolescents often experience significant physical and emotional changes.
• The program is designed to support adolescents dealing with mental health issues.

Can refer to both the state of being young and young people as a group. It's often used in policy, social work, and community contexts. Has a collective connotation and can sometimes imply inexperience or recklessness.

• The organization is dedicated to empowering the local youth.
• Youth is a time of exploration and growth.

Commonly used in everyday language to refer to someone between the ages of 13 and 19. It's more casual and often used in social or familial settings.

• The teenagers spent the afternoon at the mall.
• As a teenager, she was very interested in music and sports.

A general and neutral term that can refer to any individual who is not yet fully mature, often used in more formal or official contexts.

• Programs are available to help young persons develop leadership skills.
• A young person needs guidance and support during their formative years.

Refers both to the actual demographic and the genre of books aimed at readers from 12 to 18 years old. When talking about books, it is often synonymous with YA literature.

• Young adult books often address complex emotional themes.

An abbreviation for Young Adult literature, encompassing books aimed at readers from 12 to 18 years old. This term is broadly used in the publishing industry.

• YA literature bridges the gap between children's books and adult fiction.
• The bookstore has a special section dedicated to YA literature.

Refers to books written for and about adolescents, typically ages 12 to 18. These stories often deal with coming-of-age themes.

• Adolescent fiction often explores the challenges of growing up.
• Authors of adolescent fiction need to understand the teenage mindset.

Targets teenagers, usually between the ages of 13 and 19. It includes genres like romance, adventure, and fantasy that are popular among teens.

• The new teen fiction series is a hit among high school students.
• Teen fiction often features relatable characters and high school scenarios.