C1noun 10K+

Adolescent

UK //ˌæd.əˈlɛs.ənt// US //ˌæd.əˈlɛs.ənt// Pronunciation

Definition

A person in the stage of development between childhood and adulthood.

Listen to definition

In simple words: A young person, typically between 13 and 19 years old.

Examples

• The adolescent stage is crucial for personal development.
• Adolescents often face various social pressures.
• As an adolescent, she struggled with identity issues.
• Many programs are designed to support adolescents during this period.
• Adolescents are more susceptible to peer influence than younger children.

Usage notes

Commonly used in academic and psychology contexts. Avoid using informally or in casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

adolescent + noun

Memory hint

Think of 'a-do-late-sent' - imagine a late message from a teenager.

Collocations

• adolescent behavior
• adolescent problems
• adolescent development

Synonyms

• teenager
• youth
• junior
• young person

Antonyms

• adult
• child

Common mistakes

• Confused with 'teenager'; 'adolescent' can refer to a broader age range.
• Incorrectly treating it as an adjective.
• Using it in casual contexts where simpler terms are more appropriate.