venerable age

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "venerable age" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it to talk about someone or something that is respected because of their old age. For example, "The ancient castle has reached a venerable age, having stood for centuries in the same spot."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

The real goal is to reach a venerable age — say 85 — more or less intact.

The New York Times

-- by the time Mrs. Connolly died in 1984 at the venerable age of 99.

The New York Times

At the venerable age of 40, the God of Cricket has been in scratchy form for some time.

The Economist

A man of great energy and fierce will, died October 18, at the venerable age of 105.

The New York Times

Crowley's own Foursquare, at the venerable age of seven, has had to radically transform itself over the years to keep users entertained.

The Guardian - Tech

From the size of the footprints, the researchers put the beasts in their late 20s or early 30s – a venerable age for tyrannosaurs.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

39 human-written examples

Or should it learn to live with the inevitable streaks and blotches of venerable old age?

The New York Times

Or should it learn to live with the blotches of venerable old age?

The New York Times

Over such a period, she thought, "one can observe that venerable old age can be a guide but not a prerequisite for success in public office" – another slight ripple of amusement.

The Guardian

Over such a period, one can observe that the experience of venerable old age can be a mighty guide but not a prerequisite for success in public office.

BBC

Both became influential in their venerable years.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the context carefully. While "venerable age" implies respect, ensure it aligns with the overall tone and subject matter. It may not be suitable for informal or humorous contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "venerable age" in casual conversations or informal writing. The phrase carries a formal and respectful tone, which can sound out of place if overused or applied to inappropriate subjects.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "venerable age" functions primarily as a descriptive noun phrase. It combines the adjective "venerable", meaning worthy of respect, with the noun "age" to denote a state of being old and deserving of admiration. Ludwig confirms that this phrase is commonly used and well-regarded.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "venerable age" is a grammatically sound and relatively uncommon phrase used to describe someone or something that is worthy of respect because of their old age. Ludwig AI confirms the accuracy of this phrase and provides several examples of its use in reputable sources. When using "venerable age", remember that it carries a certain level of formality and is best suited for contexts where you want to express admiration or reverence. Alternatives like "respectable age" or "advanced years" can be considered for different nuances. While versatile, avoid overuse in informal settings to maintain the phrase's intended impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

respectable age

Similar to "venerable age" but emphasizes the respect associated with being old.

old age

A more simple and direct way to say "venerable age".

distinguished years

Highlights the honor and prestige associated with advanced age.

advanced years

Focuses on the progression of time and reaching an older stage of life.

ripe old age

Emphasizes the fullness and maturity of age, often implying a long and fulfilling life.

mature age

A simple way of mentioning someone is old but also mature.

golden years

Highlights the later stages of life, often associated with retirement and leisure.

seasoned existence

Suggests a life rich with experience and wisdom gained over time.

elderly period

Directly refers to the state of being old or aged.

long life

Focuses on the duration of existence, emphasizing the length of someone's life.

FAQs

How to use "venerable age" in a sentence?

You can use "venerable age" to describe something old that is respected. For instance, "The library, having reached a "venerable age", houses countless historical documents."

What can I say instead of "venerable age"?

You can use alternatives like "respectable age", "advanced years", or "ripe old age" depending on the context.

Is "venerable age" only used for people?

No, "venerable age" can be used to describe institutions, objects, or traditions that have endured and gained respect over time. For example, "The university, now of "venerable age", has shaped generations of leaders."

What is the difference between "old age" and "venerable age"?

"Old age" simply refers to the state of being old, while "venerable age" implies that the age is accompanied by respect, honor, and admiration.