Generational
ˌdʒenəˈreɪʃənəl
Definitions
2 meaningsRelating to, affecting, or typical of a particular generation or generations.
ˌdʒenəˈreɪʃənəl
Relating to or characteristic of a particular generation.
There are significant generational gaps in attitudes towards technology.
💡 Simply: Imagine your grandparents, parents, and you – each group grew up with different things, like technology or music. 'Generational' is about the differences and things that are special to each of those groups.
👶 For kids: It means something belongs to a group of people who grew up at about the same time, like your parents or grandparents!
More Examples
The generational impact of economic policies can be observed over decades.
The exhibition showcased generational art from the 1950s.
This cultural exchange is designed to bridge generational divides.
How It's Used
"The study explored generational differences in political views."
"Generational marketing strategies are used to target specific age groups."
"Intergenerational wealth transfer can have significant impacts."
Relating to things or characteristics that are passed on from one generation to the next, such as traditions, values, or wealth.
ˌdʒenəˈreɪʃənəl
Passed down from one generation to another.
The generational trauma experienced by many families has lasting effects.
💡 Simply: Like a family recipe or a special story passed down from your grandma or grandpa to your mom or dad, and then to you. It's something that has been in your family for a long time.
👶 For kids: Things that have been passed down through families for a long time, like a special toy or a secret handshake!
More Examples
Generational wealth often influences future economic opportunities.
The generational stories passed down within families can offer different views on an experience.
How It's Used
"The family heirloom had generational significance."
"Generational wealth creates opportunities."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
Generational Divide
The differences in attitudes, beliefs, and values between people of different generations.
"The study focused on bridging the generational divide between parents and children."
Generational Shift
A significant change in the attitudes, behaviors, or values of a generation, especially when it is different than the one that came before it.
"The generational shift in political preferences is evident in recent voting patterns."
From 'generation' (referring to a group of people born around the same time) + '-al' (forming an adjective). The term gained prominence in the 20th century to describe differences and connections between age groups.
The concept gained traction in the 20th century with the rise of sociology and cultural studies, used increasingly to analyze social trends and cultural changes across different age cohorts.
Memory tip
Think of a group of people born around the same time; their shared experiences and characteristics are generational.
Word Origin
"genesis"