Young woman Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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young woman
[jʌŋ ˈwʊmən ]
Definition
everyday life
A young woman is an adult female who is in her late teens to early twenties. She is typically considered to be youthful, energetic, and full of potential.
Synonyms
girl, lass, maiden, young lady.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| young woman |
This term is suitable for formal or respectful situations, when referring to a female in her late teens to early twenties.
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| young lady |
This term is used in polite or respectful conversations when referring to a young female. It may also be used by adults to address a girl, typically in a slightly authoritative or formal manner.
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| girl |
This word is more casual and often used when referring to a female child or a young female who is not yet an adult. It may sound paternalistic or diminish credibility when referring to an adult female.
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| lass |
This term is primarily used in British English and often has a regional or informal tone. It refers to a young girl or woman and can evoke a sense of endearment or traditionalism.
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| maiden |
This term is old-fashioned and literary. It is rarely used in everyday conversation and often appears in historical or fantasy contexts, referring to a young, unmarried woman.
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Examples of usage
- She is a talented young woman with a bright future ahead of her.
- The young woman was determined to pursue her dreams and achieve success.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Context
- In many cultures, a young woman is often seen as a symbol of hope and future possibilities, especially during rites of passage.
- Historically, the age of adulthood has varied greatly; in some cultures, young women were married in their teens, while in others, they pursued education and careers.
- The representation of young women in literature has evolved, reflecting changes in societal views on gender roles.
Psychological Perspective
- Developmentally, the young adulthood stage is linked to identity exploration, where many seek to understand their purpose and passions.
- Research shows that young women may experience societal pressures regarding their appearance and career choices, influencing their mental health.
- Strong social support networks have been shown to significantly benefit young women's self-esteem and well-being.
Pop Culture
- Many popular films and books celebrate the journey of young women, showcasing themes of empowerment, friendship, and personal growth.
- Music targeting young women often addresses empowerment themes, with many artists becoming role models through their lyrics and public personas.
- Fashion trends often revolve around young women, significantly impacting retail marketing strategies aimed at this demographic.
Education
- The educational attainment gap between young women and men has narrowed in many countries, with more women graduating from universities than before.
- Initiatives around the globe focus on educating young women, recognizing their role in economic development and societal change.
- Programs that mentor young women encourage STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) participation, aiming to balance gender representation in these fields.
Art and Literature
- Young women have been central figures in numerous artworks throughout history, often embodying innocence and potential.
- Literature featuring young women often grapples with themes of ambition, autonomy, and the quest for self-identity in a complex world.
- Poetry and novels, particularly from the feminist movement, have highlighted the experiences and challenges faced by young women, advocating for equality.
Origin of 'young woman'
The term 'young woman' has been used in the English language for centuries to refer to a female who is in the early stage of adulthood. It emphasizes youthfulness, vitality, and potential. The concept of a young woman has evolved over time, reflecting changes in societal norms and perceptions of femininity. Today, the term is commonly used to describe a female in her late teens to early twenties, highlighting her transition from adolescence to adulthood.