advanced years

USAGE SUMMARY

"advanced years" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is usually used to describe someone who is elderly or in the later stages of their life. Example: After living a long and fulfilling life, my grandmother passed away in her advanced years.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Because of his advanced years, perhaps?

Independent

That happens when you're of enormously advanced years.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Meanwhile, the 80-year-old Allen said he could not compute his advanced years.

The Guardian - Film

"It is difficult for people of advanced years to start remembering they must die," she says.

The Guardian - Books

Cricket is one of those pursuits allowing those of advanced years to stay active, he maintains.

The Guardian

Citing advanced years and infirmity, Benedict became the first pope in six centuries to resign.

The New York Times

These are lady's things, probably a lady of advanced years, judging from the fabrics and styles.

The New York Times

Then, despite his advanced years, Fernando has no plans "to step back" from activism.

The Guardian

JOHN McCAIN is a master of jesting about his advanced years.

The Economist

A sprightly but slightly farsighted man of advanced years waited in line in front of me at the neighborhood D'Agostino.

The New York Times

He had been an only child, so there were few relatives to look out for him in his advanced years.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "advanced years" to refer to the later stages of life with a sense of respect and formality, especially when discussing demographic trends, healthcare, or historical contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "advanced years" in casual conversation; it can sound overly formal. Opt for simpler terms like "old age" or "later years" for everyday contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "advanced years" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as a subject or object in a sentence to refer to the later stages of life. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable status in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Wiki

3%

Academia

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "advanced years" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to respectfully describe the later stages of life. Ludwig AI confirms its appropriate usage across various contexts, particularly in news, media, and scientific writing. While interchangeable with terms like "old age" or "later years", "advanced years" carries a more formal tone. Keep in mind that while correct, you should consider the setting when deciding whether to employ "advanced years", as there may be simpler terms available that may be preferable. As supported by the information Ludwig provides, the phrase is commonly used in discussing health, social roles, and historical contexts related to older individuals.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

old age

A more direct and common way to refer to the later part of life.

later years

A simple and neutral way to describe the final period of someone's life.

golden years

Emphasizes the positive aspects of aging, like retirement and leisure.

sunset years

A metaphorical term that represents the end of life's journey.

autumn years

A more poetic term that evokes the imagery of the season of autumn to represent aging.

ripe old age

Highlights the fullness and maturity achieved in old age.

winter of life

Another metaphorical expression that conveys the coldness and challenges that aging can bring.

declining years

Focuses on the physical decline that can accompany aging.

elderly stage

A more clinical and less euphemistic description of old age.

seniority

Focuses on the status and privileges associated with being older.

FAQs

How can I use "advanced years" in a sentence?

You might say, "Despite her advanced years, she continued to pursue her passions with vigor" or "The study focused on the healthcare needs of individuals in their advanced years".

What's a more common way to say "advanced years"?

Alternatives include "old age", "later years", or "senior years", depending on the specific context.

Is "advanced years" a respectful term for old age?

Yes, "advanced years" is generally considered a respectful and formal way to refer to old age, often used in professional or academic contexts.

When is it best to use "advanced years" instead of "old age"?

"Advanced years" is suitable in formal writing or when you want to convey a sense of respect and sensitivity, whereas "old age" is a more straightforward term suitable for general use.