Word
older
Phoneticsold·er, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈoʊɫdɝ/
UK/ˈəʊldɐ/
Definitions
01more old
A1 · Beginner
adj. having lived for more time than someone else, or having existed longer than something else.
adj. the comparative degree of 'old', indicating a greater duration of existence or life relative to another entity.
“My sister is three years older than me, so she started school first.”
“The architect noted that the foundation of the east wing was significantly older than the rest of the manor house.”
Usage
Followed by 'than' when comparing two specific things.
Pitfall
My brother is more older than me.
My brother is older than me.
Do not use 'more' with 'older' because the '-er' ending already means 'more'.
02elderly
B1 · Intermediate
adj. a polite way to describe people who are in the later part of their lives.
adj. used as a euphemistic or polite descriptor for people who are advanced in age.
“The community centre offers special exercise classes for older adults.”
“Public health initiatives often focus on the specific nutritional requirements of older populations to ensure long-term mobility.”
Usage
Often used as 'older people' or 'older adults' to sound more respectful than 'old'.
Antonyms
Collocations
Common phrases and expressions where native English speakers use the word “older” in context.
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.A1 MoversIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.2.0–3.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 1.0–1.50–23TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.120–224
- Frequency
- Very common
- Level
- A1 · Beginner
- Updated
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englishreference.com/q/older