at a certain age

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at a certain age" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a specific point in life or a stage of development, often in discussions about maturity or milestones. Example: "At a certain age, children begin to develop their own opinions and preferences."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Leaders were retired at a certain age.

The New York Times

At a certain age, you worry less".

The New York Times

"They feel they become invisible at a certain age.

The Guardian

"Women do read her at a certain age," she said.

The New York Times

It was kind of written into our genes that we would die at a certain age.

The Guardian

You do lose control of teenage boys at a certain age.

The Guardian - Music

At a certain age I realized I didn't want to be a wife.

The New York Times - Magazine

'No matter who you are, Elizabeth Taylor, Michelle Pfeiffer, it's over at a certain age.

The Guardian - Film

One is to cull everyone at a certain age, which is clearly unacceptable.

The Guardian

But I realise this happens to everyone at a certain age.

The Guardian - Sport

It's not about telling girls they have to have children at a certain age.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "at a certain age" to refer to a period of life when particular milestones or changes typically occur. This phrase is most effective when the exact age is unknown or less important than the general life stage.

Common error

Avoid using "at a certain age" to make sweeping generalizations about what all individuals experience. Personal development varies; acknowledge that experiences can occur at different times for different people.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at a certain age" functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb or clause. It specifies the time frame during which an action, event, or state occurs. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

69%

Science

17%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "at a certain age" is a versatile and commonly used adverbial phrase that specifies a general period in life when particular events or changes typically occur. As Ludwig AI points out, it is grammatically correct and widely accepted in written English. It's frequently found in news and media, as well as scientific and formal business contexts. When using "at a certain age", it's crucial to avoid overgeneralizations and acknowledge individual differences in development. While alternatives such as "at a specific age" or "as one gets older" can be used, "at a certain age" is appropriate when the exact age is unknown or less relevant than the general life stage. It's also important to keep in mind that while the phrase is commonly used, making blanket statements can be misleading. The goal is to indicate a specific period of life when specific developments or experiences are common, for example "At a certain age, children begin to question everything".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at a specific age

More precise, focusing on a particular age rather than a general period.

at a particular age

Similar to "at a specific age", but emphasizes a distinct or noteworthy age.

as one gets older

Focuses on the process of aging rather than a fixed point.

with increasing age

Highlights the gradual changes that occur as someone ages.

in one's later years

Refers specifically to the advanced stages of life.

during adolescence

Refers to a specific stage of life: adolescence.

in adulthood

Refers to a specific stage of life: adulthood.

at a mature age

Highlights the attainment of maturity.

at a youthful age

Highlights the state of being young.

as people age

Focuses on the general process of aging within a population.

FAQs

How can I use "at a certain age" in a sentence?

You can use "at a certain age" to refer to a stage of life when specific developments or experiences are common, such as "At a certain age, children begin to question everything".

What are some alternatives to the phrase "at a certain age"?

Alternatives include phrases like "at a specific age", "at a particular age", or "as one gets older", depending on the context.

Is it more appropriate to say "at a certain age" or "at a specific age"?

"At a certain age" is used when the exact age is not known or relevant. "At a specific age" is used when the age is known and important to the context.

What is implied when someone says "people change at a certain age"?

It suggests that developmental or life-changing events often coincide with particular phases of life, although individual experiences may vary. It does not imply that changes are identical for everyone at that age.