grow up

USAGE SUMMARY

'grow up' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to refer to someone maturing, or learning to deal with the realities of life. For example: "He was naive when he was younger, but he's starting to grow up and become more responsible."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

30 human-written examples

To grow up.

The New Yorker

Can he grow up?

The New York Times

People grow up!

Independent

John, grow up.

Independent

So why grow up?

The New Yorker

"We grow up".

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

30 human-written examples

He grew up fast.

The New York Times - Arts

"We grew up there.

The New York Times

Growing up, I did.

Independent

"I grew up overnight.

Independent

"Everything has grown up".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "grow up" in the context of telling someone to stop acting childish, consider the tone. It can come across as harsh, so use it judiciously.

Common error

Avoid using "grow up" reflexively when it doesn't make sense. For example, saying "I need to grow me up" is incorrect; instead, say "I need to grow up".

Linguistic Context

The phrasal verb "grow up" primarily functions as an intransitive verb, meaning it does not take a direct object. Ludwig examples show it describing the process of maturing and developing into an adult or ceasing childish behavior. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Wiki

14%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrasal verb "grow up" is a versatile expression used to describe the process of maturing, developing, or abandoning childish behaviors. As Ludwig AI confirms, it’s grammatically sound and commonly used. It can function as a descriptive term, an aspirational goal, or even a stern command. While its register is generally neutral, context dictates its formality, ranging from simple storytelling to sharp rebukes. Be mindful of your tone when urging someone to "grow up", as it can easily sound condescending.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

mature

Refers to reaching full development or adulthood, omitting the phrasal verb construction.

become an adult

Emphasizes the transition to adulthood directly, rather than the process of maturing.

come of age

Highlights the attainment of legal adulthood or a significant milestone in maturation.

develop

Focuses on the process of growth and progress, applicable to various contexts beyond personal maturation.

act your age

An imperative urging someone to behave in a manner appropriate for their age, similar to one usage of "grow up".

stop being childish

Directly addresses the cessation of immature behavior, similar to the imperative use of "grow up".

leave adolescence behind

Highlights the transition out of teenage years, focusing on a specific stage of maturation.

reach adulthood

Focuses on achieving the state of being an adult, rather than the process of becoming one.

become more responsible

Emphasizes the development of responsibility, often associated with maturing.

outgrow

Focuses on surpassing something, such as childish habits or interests.

FAQs

How can I use "grow up" in a sentence?

"Grow up" can be used to describe the process of maturing, as in "He wants to "grow up" to be a doctor". It can also be used as an imperative, like "Grow up and take responsibility for your actions".

What is the difference between "grow up" and "mature"?

"Grow up" typically refers to the overall process of becoming an adult, encompassing physical, emotional, and intellectual development. "Mature" focuses more on the emotional and intellectual aspects of development. Although they are interchangeable in many contexts, "mature" implies a higher level of sophistication or wisdom.

What are some alternatives to telling someone to "grow up"?

Instead of saying ""grow up"", you could say "act your age", "be more responsible", or "stop being childish depending on the context".

Is it correct to say "I'm growing up"?

Yes, "I'm "growing up"" is a perfectly correct and common way to express that you are in the process of maturing and developing.