Learning to talk about “age” can be tricky for ESL students. Here are some of the most common mistakes learners make and how to fix them!
1. Saying “I have 25 years”
Incorrect: I have 25 years. Correct: I am 25 years old.
English uses “to be” with ages, not “to have.” Always say “I am [age] years old.”
2. Forgetting “old”
Incorrect: She is 30. Correct: She is 30 years old. More natural: She is 30.
While it’s okay to say “She is 30” in casual conversation, for formal or test situations, “She is 30 years old” is preferred.
3. Misusing “age” as a verb
Incorrect: He ages quickly. Correct: He is getting older quickly.
The verb “age” means to become older naturally over time, not as an action you do consciously.
4. Misplacing “age” in questions
Incorrect: What age are you? Correct: How old are you?
Although “What is your age?” can be used, “How old are you?” is far more common and natural.
Tips for Practice
- Practice saying your own and others’ ages aloud.
- Listen for how native speakers ask and talk about age.
- Use both “to be” and “age” correctly in a variety of contexts.
With the right guidance, mastering how to use “age” — and many other tricky English points — is faster and easier than you think. Why not take the next step? Book your private lesson with Mark at MK’s English! Whether you want to improve your speaking, prepare for a test, or just feel more confident, Mark’s expert lessons are designed for YOU.
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