# of age

CEFR B2 · Fixed phrase

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/of-age
Updated: 2026-07-31

## Definition

to be old enough to do something legally, like voting or buying alcohol.

For teachers: having reached the legal age of majority or the specific age required for a particular legal right or responsibility.

## Examples

- You can't buy wine until you are of age.
- In many countries, young people are not considered of age until they turn eighteen.
- The trust fund remains inaccessible to the heirs until they are officially of age according to the terms of the will.

## Pitfalls

- Not "He is 18 years of age." but "He is 18 years old." — while 'years of age' is a formal alternative to 'years old', the phrase 'of age' on its own specifically means reaching the legal limit, not just a count of years.

## Usage notes

- usually follows the verb 'to be' and is not followed by a specific number.
- Teaching tip: contrast with 'come of age', which describes the transition or process, whereas 'of age' describes the state itself.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.