within a generation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "within a generation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a time frame that typically spans about 20 to 30 years, often in discussions about social, cultural, or technological changes. Example: "The landscape of technology has changed dramatically within a generation, making devices more accessible to everyone."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Within a generation, they were gone.

Independent

Can India reach affluence within a generation?

The Economist

Within a generation it became indispensable to archaeology.

The New York Times - Tech

Within a generation Algeria had legally become part of France.

The Guardian - Books

They suggest proof may come within a generation.

The Washington Post

The fight for gender equality within a generation is winnable.

The Guardian - Opinion

Cameron will announce an ambition to end the gender pay gap within a generation.

The Guardian

Russia's population is shrinking, and demographers warn that it is within a generation of plummeting.

The New York Times

It is 15 years since Tony Blair pledged to eradicate child poverty within a generation.

The Guardian

Within a generation, there will probably be more Muslims than practicing Anglicans in the British Isles.

The New York Times

Bill said in 2014 that malaria could be eliminated within a generation.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Clearly define what constitutes a 'generation' in your context, as its perceived length can vary. This prevents ambiguity and ensures your audience understands the timeframe you're referencing.

Common error

Avoid generalizing experiences across an entire generation. Factors like socioeconomic status, geographic location, and cultural background significantly impact individual experiences. Acknowledge this diversity to enhance the credibility of your claims.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "within a generation" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate a timeframe. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase is widely used in varied contexts. For instance, "The fight for gender equality within a generation is winnable."

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Science

15%

Academia

8%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "within a generation" is a common and grammatically sound way to indicate a timeframe of roughly 20-30 years, as affirmed by Ludwig AI. It's frequently used in news, scientific, and academic contexts to project future changes or outcomes. While generally neutral in register, it is important to be mindful of the diverse experiences that exist within any given generation. By understanding its nuances and avoiding generalizations, writers can effectively utilize "within a generation" to convey a sense of immediacy and set expectations for societal and individual impacts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in one generation's time

Changes the preposition and possessive form while maintaining the core meaning of a single generation as a unit of time.

during a single generation

Emphasizes the duration or period over which something occurs, rather than simply the timeframe.

over the span of a generation

Highlights the entire duration of a generation, suggesting a process that unfolds throughout that period.

in the course of a generation

Similar to 'over the span of', but implies a natural progression or unfolding of events.

within 20-30 years

Provides a numerical estimate of the timeframe, making it more concrete but less conceptual.

in a generational timeframe

Rephrases the concept, emphasizing the perspective of generational change.

by the next generation

Focuses on the subsequent group of people, implying changes will be evident when they come of age.

during the coming generation

Highlights the imminence and future nature of the generational period.

within a human lifetime

Broadens the timeframe, implying a period experienced by a living individual, not necessarily a single generation.

in the space of a generation

Emphasizes the limited or finite nature of the timeframe in which changes can happen.

FAQs

How can I use "within a generation" in a sentence?

You can use "within a generation" to describe changes or events expected to occur in approximately 20-30 years. For example, "Experts predict that renewable energy will become the primary power source "within a generation"".

What are some alternatives to saying "within a generation"?

Alternatives include "in one generation's time", "during a single generation", or "over the span of a generation", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it accurate to define a generation as exactly 30 years when using the phrase "within a generation"?

While a generation is often estimated at around 20-30 years, "within a generation" implies an approximate timeframe rather than a precise measurement. The focus is more on the social and cultural impact over a period where significant changes can occur.

What is the difference between "within a generation" and "by the next generation"?

"Within a generation" refers to changes occurring during the current generation's lifespan. "By the next generation" emphasizes changes or achievements that will be fully realized or apparent when the following generation comes of age.