C1noun2K

Offspring

UK /["/ˈɒfsprɪŋ/"]/US /["/ˈɔːfsprɪŋ/"]/

Definition

a child of a particular person or couple

In simple words: Children or young animals produced by their parents.

Examples

  • the problems parents have with their teenage offspring
  • to **produce/raise offspring**
  • Female badgers may give birth to as many as five offspring.
  • The beast was believed to be the offspring of a panther.

Usage notes

Used in both scientific and everyday contexts. More commonly used in discussions about biology, genetics, or family. Avoid using in informal conversations unless discussing family matters.

Grammar pattern

offspring + of + parent(s)

Memory hint

Think of 'offspring' as 'off springing' new life.

Collocations

  • offspring of
  • human offspring
  • animal offspring
  • list of offspring
  • care for offspring

Synonyms

  • descendants
  • young
  • children
  • progeny
  • heirs

Antonyms

  • ancestor
  • parent
  • progenitor

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'children' when referring only to humans.
  • Using 'offspring' incorrectly as a singular form; it's often used in plural.
  • Omitting the context when discussing 'offspring'; it often requires specifying the parents.