B2adjective 2K

Senior

UK /["/ˈsiːniə(r)/"]/ US /["/ˈsiːniər/"]/ Pronunciation

Definition

high in rank or status; higher in rank or status than others

Listen to definition

In simple words: An older person, often retired.

Examples

• The senior members of the team provided valuable insights during the meeting.
• She has been promoted to a senior position within the company.
• Senior citizens often receive discounts at various restaurants.
• The senior class was excited to plan their graduation ceremony.
• In some cultures, the wisdom of senior individuals is highly respected.

Usage notes

Use 'senior' when referring to older adults or someone in a higher position. Avoid in contexts where age might be sensitive; instead, say 'older adult'.

Grammar pattern

adjective + noun

Memory hint

Think of 'senior' as someone over the hill — they have a lot of life experience!

Collocations

• be
• very
• fairly
• quite
• to

Synonyms

• elder
• aged
• mature
• older

Antonyms

• junior
• youthful

Common mistakes

• Confused use of 'senior' to mean 'senior citizen' exclusively when it can refer to anyone older.
• Using 'senior' as a noun without context (it's better as an adjective).
• Mixing up 'senior' with 'elderly' which can imply frailty.