an age

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an age" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a specific period in history or a stage in someone's life. Example: "We are living in an age of rapid technological advancement."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

50 human-written examples

It's an age thing".

Independent

Every second feels like an age.

Independent

That took an age to change.

Independent

This is an age of cinematic selves.

The New Yorker

Talk about an age of innocence!

The New York Times

Many have an age cap of 75.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

9 human-written examples

It's an age-old scenario.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"It's an age-old system.

The New York Times

It's an age-old problem.

Forbes

Annuities are an age-old concept.

Forbes

It's an age-old argument.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "an age" to describe a period, ensure it accurately reflects the characteristics of that time. For example, "an age of innovation" should refer to a period marked by significant advancements.

Common error

Avoid using "an age" when referring to very short or insignificant time periods. It typically describes broader, more impactful eras or phases.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an age" typically functions as a noun phrase, often serving as a subject complement or an object of a preposition. Ludwig AI examples show it describing a specific time period or era, such as "We are entering an age of extremes".

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Wiki

15%

Formal & Business

4%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "an age" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to describe a significant period of time, often characterized by specific features or events. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and versatility across various contexts. Predominantly found in News & Media, it maintains a neutral register suitable for both formal and informal communication. To enhance clarity, consider the specific qualities of the time you're describing and choose alternatives like "a period of time" or "a specific era" where appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a period of time

This phrase replaces "age" with a more general term, focusing on duration rather than specific characteristics.

a specific era

This alternative emphasizes a distinct period in history or a particular time with unique features.

a stage of life

This focuses on a particular phase in a person's development or existence.

a generation

Implies a group of people born and living around the same time.

a long time

Emphasizes the duration, suggesting that something takes or lasts considerably.

a point in history

Highlights a specific moment or period within historical events.

a span of years

Refers to a continuous period, often emphasizing the passage of time.

a historical epoch

Implies a significant and distinct period marked by specific events or characteristics.

a time frame

Focuses on the boundaries or limits of a particular period.

an era of time

Highlights the importance of a particular period of time.

FAQs

How can I use "an age" in a sentence?

You can use "an age" to refer to a long period of time or a specific era, such as "We live in "an age of technology"" or "That election, however, is "an age away"".

What's the difference between "an age" and "an era"?

While both refer to periods of time, "an era" often denotes a more defined and distinct period with specific characteristics, whereas "an age" can be a more general reference to a time span. For example, we might speak of the Victorian era, but also refer to an age of exploration.

What can I say instead of "an age"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "a period of time", "a specific era", or "a generation".

Is it correct to say "in an age" or "during an age"?

Both are grammatically correct, but "in "an age"" is more common. "During "an age"" might be used to emphasize that something happened throughout the entire duration of that period.