What's the Difference Between 'Elder' and 'Older'?

In this blog post we look at when to use elder and when to use older.

'Elder' or 'Older'?

The words "elder" and "older" are both used to describe a person who is advanced in age compared to someone else. However, there are some important differences between these words that you should be aware of.

First, let's define each of these words:

  • "Elder" refers to a person who is older than someone else in terms of their age or status. This word is often used to describe people who are respected for their wisdom and experience, especially within a community or family.

  • "Older" simply means that someone or something is greater in age than someone or something else. This word is often used to describe the age difference between two people, or to indicate that someone has reached a certain age.

Now let's look at the main differences between "elder" and "older":

  • "Elder" is more formal than "older." It is often used in formal or technical contexts, such as in legal documents or in discussions of ancestry or family history. "Older," on the other hand, is more commonly used in casual or everyday conversation.

  • "Elder" is often used to describe someone who holds a position of authority or responsibility within a community or family. For example, you might refer to an elder member of a tribe or an elder sibling in a family. "Older," on the other hand, does not necessarily imply any kind of authority or responsibility.

  • "Elder" is used more frequently in British English than in American English. In American English, it is more common to use "older" to describe someone who is advanced in age.

In summary, the main difference between "elder" and "older" is that "elder" is a more formal word that is often used to describe someone who holds a position of authority or responsibility, while "older" simply means that someone is older in age.

Here are some example sentences to illustrate the difference between "elder" and "older":

  • "My elder sister has always been the responsible one in our family." (In this sentence, "elder" is used to describe the person who is older and holds a position of responsibility within the family.)

  • "My older brother is five years older than me." (In this sentence, "older" is used to describe the age difference between the two siblings.)

  • "The elder members of the tribe were consulted before any major decisions were made." (In this sentence, "elder" is used to describe the people who are older and hold a position of authority within the tribe.)

  • "She is the older of the two siblings." (In this sentence, "older" is used to describe the age difference between the two siblings.)

Examples of Elder in a Sentence

Here are 10 example sentences using the word "elder":

  1. "The elder members of the community are often consulted for their wisdom and experience."

  2. "My elder brother is five years older than me and has always been a role model for me."

  3. "The elder statesman of the party was widely respected for his years of service and dedication."

  4. "The village elder presided over the meeting, making sure that everyone had a chance to speak."

  5. "The elder tree in the park is over 100 years old and is a beloved landmark in the community."

  6. "The elder generation is often seen as having more traditional values and a deeper connection to the past."

  7. "The elder council was responsible for making important decisions on behalf of the tribe."

  8. "The elder sister took care of her younger siblings while their parents were at work."

  9. "The elder god was worshiped by the ancient civilization for its power and wisdom."

  10. "The elder of the church was respected for his faith and leadership within the congregation."

Examples of Older in a Sentence

Here are 10 example sentences using the word "older":

  1. "I'm the older of the two siblings, but my younger brother is much taller than me."

  2. "As I get older, I find that I need more rest and take longer to recover from illness."

  3. "I'm looking for a new job, but I'm worried that my age will work against me as I'm older than most of the other candidates."

  4. "My older sister has always been more outgoing and adventurous than me."

  5. "The older building has a lot of character and charm, but it's in need of some renovations."

  6. "I'm saving up to buy a house, but I'm finding that prices are much higher now than they were when my parents were my age."

  7. "I'm trying to eat healthier as I get older, so I'm cutting back on junk food and trying to eat more fruits and vegetables."

  8. "The older model of phone doesn't have as many features as the newer ones, but it still works just fine for my needs."

  9. "I'm older than most of the other students in my class, but I'm really enjoying going back to school and learning new things."

  10. "I always feel a little out of place at parties with people who are much younger than me, but my older friends are always happy to hang out and have a good time."


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Elder or Older
Elder or Older