Come of age

Meaning

"Come of age" is an idiom that means to reach maturity or adulthood, both physically and mentally. It can also refer to the process of growing up and developing into a responsible and independent person. In contemporary language, the phrase often has a positive connotation, suggesting that someone has reached a stage of life where they are capable of making their own decisions and taking responsibility for their actions.

Usage

• "At 25, John finally felt like he had come of age and was ready to take on the responsibilities of adulthood."
• "After years of being bullied at school, Sarah finally came of age and decided to stand up for herself."
• "The company's new CEO had a lot of experience under his belt, but it wasn't until he came of age that he was able to lead the team effectively."
• "Society expects people to come of age at a certain age, but for some individuals, it can take longer or never happen."
• "Some people believe that traveling is an important part of coming of age, as it helps individuals develop independence and self-reliance."

Roots and History

The phrase "come of age" dates back to the 14th century, when it was used in legal contexts to refer to reaching the age of majority. In medieval England, a person could not vote or enter into contracts until they were at least 21 years old, and this age was considered to be the age of "majority." Over time, the phrase came to be used more broadly to refer to the process of growing up and maturing emotionally as well as physically.

Synonyms in English

• Grow up
• Mature
• Develop into adulthood
• Reach maturity
• Come into one's own

Synonyms in other languages

• Spanish: "Madurar" (to mature)
• French: "Maturiser" (to mature)
• Italian: "Compiere la maggiore età" (to reach adulthood)
• German: "Junges Leben hinter sich lassen" (to leave youth behind)
• Dutch: "Ongemakkelijk worden" (to become uncomfortable)

Similar Idioms

• code of conduct

• call the shots

• child’s play