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Oops! Sorry, I mean becoming "more experienced and wiser". We will talk about the many other meanings of this word such as the one in the headline, "Poland's stock exchange finally comes of age".

The expression "come of age" conveys two meanings: the first describes that someone has reached the age when they can be legally recognised as an adult, which in most countries is 18 years old. People who come of age are also eligible to vote.

 

Thai youths who have come of age this year will have a chance to cast their first vote in December.  

 

The second meaning is usually used when something like the style of painting etc reaches its state of maturity or development and is accepted or respected by the public. This is the meaning used in the aforementioned headline - which explains that Poland's stock exchange has finally reached its important state of development. 

 

After many years of exploring his own talent Philip's painting has finally come of age.

 

If someone is, by law, is too young to do something such as consume alcohol, visit entertainment venues or have sex, we say they are underage.

 

The man was charged with having sex with an underage girl.

 

One might ask, "So when is a person old enough to have sex?"

The answer to that would be - when he or she reaches the age of consent.

 

It is quite alarming that from many surveys, a large number of girls and boys are having sex before they reach the age of consent.

 

There are quite a number of people out there who are very lucky because they look young for their age.

 

Fifty years old already. Are you kidding? She looks young for her age. 

 

And then there are people who aren't as lucky because they show their age. Here's an excerpt from Rod Stewart's song "Maggie May", which is a perfect example:

 

"The morning sun when it's in your face really shows your age

But that don't worry me none, in my eyes you're everything"

And now you might say that since I use this particular song as an example, it shows my age!

 

The above example is about looks, but what about behaviour? Someone who behaves younger that their age - which can sometimes be quite annoying - does not act their age. If you want them to stop behaving like that you will tell them to, "Act your age!"  

 

You are not a child anymore. If you want something done, you have to act your age first!

 

Complete the sentences with the expressions explained:

1. It is illegal for adult men to have sex with girls who haven't reached….

2. Jack wants to move out from his parents' house once he has….

3. Sorry! We don't sell alcohol to people who are….

4. Natalie was pleased to hear that she….

5. Stop whining and … or I will not talk to you.

Answers:  1. the age of consent, 2. come of age, 3. underage, 4. looked young for her age, 5. act your age

By Parnsap Yomanage