at your age

USAGE SUMMARY

"at your age" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is used to either point out the age of the person to whom you are speaking, or to suggest that the age of the person is relevant to the conversation at hand. For example, "At your age, you should start thinking about saving for retirement."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Others tell me I'm brave, with the unspoken addition, "at your age".

The Times

I wasn't sure when "at your age" became a phrase that applied to me.

Huffington Post

At your age!

The Guardian - Travel

Not at your age".

The New Yorker

Bra tops at your age?

The Guardian - Lifestyle

At your age, it's not good.

The New Yorker

"At your age?" thinks the teacher.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

It must he ghastly for you, at your age".

The New Yorker

You're behaving like an old man, at your age!

The New Yorker

That's what you're supposed to be doing at your age.

The New Yorker

I didn't give a shit at your age".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "at your age" to offer guidance or share insights based on life experience, but avoid making assumptions about what someone should or shouldn't be doing based solely on their age.

Common error

Don't assume that someone's age dictates their abilities, interests, or experiences. Stereotyping based on age can lead to misunderstandings and missed opportunities.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at your age" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause by indicating a condition or circumstance related to the age of the subject. Ludwig AI indicates the expression is a correct and usable phrase. For example, "At your age, you should be more responsible."

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

15%

Huffington Post

15%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "at your age" is a commonly used expression that provides context related to someone's life stage. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. However, it's essential to use this phrase with sensitivity, as it can sometimes be perceived as condescending or ageist. While "at your age" appears frequently in news and media, its perceived formality varies depending on tone and context. To maintain neutrality, consider alternatives like "given your experience" or "considering your current stage of life". Be mindful of the assumptions you might be making and ensure your communication remains respectful and relevant. You can use alternatives like "for someone your age".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

for someone your age

Highlights consideration based on age.

considering how young you are

Emphasizes youth in a general way.

considering your youth

Focuses specifically on the person being young.

given your maturity

Highlights a person's developed state.

at your tender years

Emphasizes youth and innocence.

in your current stage of life

Rephrases it in a general and less age-oriented way.

in your prime

Highlights the period of greatest vigor or success in life.

at this point in your life

Suggests a specific moment or phase.

at this stage of development

Refering to the state of something growing or advancing.

with your limited experience

Highlights the lack of experience.

FAQs

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

You can use "at your age" to provide context related to someone's developmental stage or life experience. For example, "At your age, saving for retirement is a smart decision."

What's a more neutral way to address someone's age without saying "at your age"?

You could say "given your experience" or "considering your current stage of life" to be more tactful. This avoids directly referencing age while still acknowledging their position.

When is it inappropriate to use the phrase "at your age"?

It's often inappropriate when making assumptions or expressing doubt about someone's capabilities based on their age. For example, saying "At your age, you shouldn't be trying that" can be dismissive and ageist.

What are some alternatives to "at your age" that still consider someone's life stage?

Alternatives like "considering your maturity level", "given your youth", or "in your current phase of life" can be used. You can also use alternatives like "for someone your age".