reaches adulthood

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "reaches adulthood" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the transition from childhood to adulthood, often in discussions about development or maturity. Example: "As a child grows and learns, they eventually reach adulthood, where they take on new responsibilities."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

45 human-written examples

Make a chart illustrating the changes one's body goes through as it reaches adulthood.

The New York Times

A mother's cells can endure until a child reaches adulthood and perhaps throughout life.

The Economist

AS it reaches adulthood, Southwest insists that it can hold on to its teenage ways.

The New York Times

It seems that, once the young person reaches adulthood, whatever their "mental age", the education system wanders off.

The Guardian - Opinion

The social worker says that the message will be placed with the adoption papers for the child to see when it reaches adulthood.

The Guardian

The parallels break down as Philip reaches adulthood, which is also where the novel begins to take shape as a masterpiece.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

14 human-written examples

Many affected children don't reach adulthood.

The Guardian

Many people are not diagnosed until they reach adulthood.

The Guardian

As Rose reached adulthood, her behavior grew increasingly erratic.

The New Yorker

Then he reached adulthood and it got serious.

The New York Times - Books

Since reaching adulthood, however, I have largely stayed on shore.

The Guardian - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "reaches adulthood" to describe the point at which an individual is considered fully grown and responsible, particularly when discussing developmental stages, legal rights, or societal expectations.

Common error

Avoid using "reaches adulthood" interchangeably with simply becoming older. Adulthood implies not just age, but also a certain level of maturity, responsibility, and societal recognition.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "reaches adulthood" primarily functions as a verb phrase indicating the attainment of a specific life stage. As confirmed by Ludwig, this phrase is used to denote the transition from childhood or adolescence to full adulthood, implying both age and associated responsibilities.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

33%

Wiki

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "reaches adulthood" is a commonly used and grammatically correct way to describe the transition from childhood to adulthood. Ludwig confirms its appropriateness across various contexts. It is especially prevalent in news, science, and general informational sources. When using this phrase, remember that it implies both a chronological age and the acceptance of certain responsibilities associated with adulthood. While alternatives like "comes of age" or "attains maturity" exist, the best choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Attains adulthood

Focuses on the achievement of adulthood as a destination.

Comes of age

Emphasizes the process of maturing and gaining experience.

Matures into adulthood

Highlights the gradual process of development.

Transitions to adulthood

Focuses on the shift from adolescence to adulthood.

Develops into an adult

Emphasizes the biological and psychological development.

Grows into adulthood

Highlights the organic and natural progression.

Achieves maturity

Focuses on the accomplishment of full development.

Becomes an adult

Simple and direct statement of reaching adulthood.

Completes adolescence

Highlights the end of the adolescent phase, leading to adulthood.

Advances to adulthood

Focuses on progressing towards the state of being an adult.

FAQs

How can I use "reaches adulthood" in a sentence?

Use "reaches adulthood" to indicate the transition from childhood or adolescence to being a fully grown adult, often when discussing legal, social, or developmental milestones. For instance, "Once a child "reaches adulthood", they gain the right to vote."

What are some alternatives to saying "reaches adulthood"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "comes of age", "attains maturity", or "transitions to adulthood".

Is it correct to say "reached adulthood" or "reaches adulthood"?

"Reached adulthood" is used for past events, while "reaches adulthood" is used for general statements or future events. For example, "She "reached adulthood" last year" versus "A child "reaches adulthood" at 18."

What is the difference between "reaches adulthood" and "reaches maturity"?

"Reaches adulthood" generally refers to the age or legal milestone, while "reaches maturity" often describes emotional or intellectual development. While related, maturity implies a level of development beyond just age.