from one generation to the next

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "from one generation to the next" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe the transfer of knowledge, traditions, or values across different generations. Example: "The stories of our ancestors have been passed down from one generation to the next, preserving our cultural heritage."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"These farms have often passed on from one generation to the next.

The Guardian

Altered epigenetic modifications (i.e., epimutations) may also be passed on from one generation to the next.

Alcohol research : current reviews

This process passes on parental genes without modification from one generation to the next.

BMC Evolutionary Biology

"Pain is handed down from one generation to the next.

The Guardian

Over the years the farm was passed down from one generation to the next.

Cornell University

At each event significant morphological change occurred from one generation to the next generation.

Zoology

With each movement from one generation to the next, major changes in architecture and capabilities occurred.

Electronic Access Control

A resiliency remains, born from traditions passed from one generation to the next.

The New York Times - Sports

Seals were worn and passed from one generation to the next.

The New York Times - Arts

As Crain shows, expressions of love do change from one generation to the next.

The New York Times - Books

This knowledge is often passed down from one generation to the next.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing cultural heritage or family traditions, use "from one generation to the next" to emphasize how these elements are preserved and transmitted over time.

Common error

While "from one generation to the next" is suitable for general contexts, in highly technical or scientific writing, consider using more precise language, such as "successive generations" or "intergenerational transmission", to avoid ambiguity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "from one generation to the next" functions as a prepositional phrase often used as an adverbial modifier. It typically modifies verbs or clauses to indicate the transmission or continuation of something across successive generations. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

46%

Science

29%

Academia

9%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "from one generation to the next" is a versatile and grammatically sound expression used to describe the transmission of elements across successive generations. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage is widespread and appropriate in various contexts. It is especially common in news and media, science, and academic writing. While alternatives like "from generation to generation" and "across generations" exist, "from one generation to the next" effectively highlights the continuity and enduring nature of the transmitted element. Be mindful of the context, and consider using more precise language in technical writing to avoid ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

from generation to generation

This alternative is nearly synonymous, emphasizing the continuous flow between generations.

across generations

This alternative provides a broader scope, encompassing multiple generations rather than focusing on a single transition.

passed down through families

This emphasizes the role of family lineage in the transmission process.

in successive generations

This highlights the sequential aspect of the transmission process.

through the generations

This emphasizes the passing of time and how something endures across multiple generations.

handed down through time

This alternative highlights the historical aspect of the transmission.

intergenerationally

This adverbial form focuses on the relationship or interaction between generations.

from ancestors to descendants

This alternative provides a more specific and formal description of the generational relationship.

down through the ages

This extends the timeframe beyond generations to a much longer historical period.

legacy passed forward

This focuses on the concept of a legacy being transferred to future generations.

FAQs

How can I use "from one generation to the next" in a sentence?

This phrase is used to describe the transmission of knowledge, values, traditions, or traits across successive generations. For example, "The art of pottery making was passed down "from one generation to the next" in their family."

What are some alternatives to "from one generation to the next"?

Alternatives include "from generation to generation", "across generations", or "intergenerationally", depending on the specific context you wish to convey.

Is there a difference between "from one generation to the next" and "from generation to generation"?

While very similar, "from one generation to the next" can emphasize a single step in the transmission, whereas "from generation to generation" suggests a more continuous and ongoing process.

In what contexts is "from one generation to the next" most appropriate?

This phrase is particularly appropriate when discussing family history, cultural heritage, inherited traits, or the passing of traditions and values. For instance, describing how a family business is passed "from one generation to the next".