B1noun1K

Generation

UK /["/ˌdʒenəˈreɪʃn/"]/US /["/ˌdʒenəˈreɪʃn/"]/

Definition

all the people who were born at about the same time

In simple words: a group of people born and living at the same time

Examples

  • The younger generation often has different views on technology.
  • Each generation faces its own unique challenges and opportunities.
  • The generation of electricity from renewable sources is essential for sustainability.
  • She belongs to the same generation as her parents, which influences her values.
  • This generation will be key in addressing climate change.

Usage notes

Commonly used to refer to groups of people of similar age or experiences. Avoid using in overly formal contexts, as it may sound vague.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'generate'—like a new group being generated at the same time.

Collocations

  • current
  • present
  • new
  • belong to
  • date back
  • go back
  • grow up
  • gap
  • for a generation
  • for generations
  • from generation to generation
  • from one generation to the next
  • current
  • present
  • new
  • belong to
  • date back
  • go back
  • grow up
  • gap
  • for a generation
  • for generations
  • from generation to generation
  • from one generation to the next
  • electricity
  • power
  • income

Synonyms

  • cohort
  • age group
  • era
  • class

Antonyms

  • obsolescence
  • decline

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'generation' as a verb, leading to incorrect sentence structure.
  • Using 'generations' where 'generation' is appropriate, especially in singular contexts.