When it comes to writing, accuracy and consistency are crucial, especially in journalistic and professional contexts. One of the most widely used style guides in the industry is the AP Stylebook, which provides guidelines for writing, including how to handle ages. Understanding and applying these rules is essential for producing flawless writing. In this article, we'll delve into the 11 essential AP Style age rules that every writer should know.
Key Points
- Use figures for ages, with a few exceptions
- Hyphenate ages as modifiers
- Avoid using ages as nouns
- Be specific when referring to a person's age
- Use "older" and "younger" instead of "elder" and "junior"
- Avoid using "senior" as a synonym for "older"
- Use "teen" or "teenager" instead of "teenage"
- Hyphenate "mid-" when used with ages
- Avoid using ages to describe a group of people
- Be mindful of cultural and personal sensitivities
- Use ages in a way that is respectful and accurate
Introduction to AP Style Age Rules
The AP Stylebook provides comprehensive guidelines for handling ages in writing. These rules are designed to promote clarity, consistency, and respect in writing. By following these guidelines, writers can ensure that their work is accurate, engaging, and free of potential pitfalls.
Rule 1: Use Figures for Ages
According to the AP Stylebook, ages should be expressed using figures, except when the age is used as a descriptive term or when it is part of a phrase that is more commonly expressed in words. For example, “The 5-year-old boy” is preferred over “The five-year-old boy.” However, “the five senses” is the preferred usage.
Rule 2: Hyphenate Ages as Modifiers
When an age is used as a modifier, it should be hyphenated. For example, “the 30-year-old man” is correct, while “the thirty year old man” is not. This rule applies to all ages, from “1-year-old” to “100-year-old” and beyond.
Rule 3: Avoid Using Ages as Nouns
Ages should not be used as nouns. Instead of saying “the 50s,” say “people in their 50s” or “50-year-olds.” This rule helps to avoid ambiguity and ensures that the intended meaning is clear.
Rule 4: Be Specific When Referring to a Person’s Age
When referring to a person’s age, be as specific as possible. Instead of saying “the woman is in her 30s,” say “the 32-year-old woman.” This rule applies to all individuals, regardless of their age or profession.
Rule 5: Use “Older” and “Younger” Instead of “Elder” and “Junior”
The AP Stylebook recommends using “older” and “younger” instead of “elder” and “junior” to describe people. For example, “the older brother” is preferred over “the elder brother.” This rule helps to avoid confusion and ensures that the intended meaning is clear.
Rule 6: Avoid Using “Senior” as a Synonym for “Older”
“Senior” should not be used as a synonym for “older.” Instead, use “senior” to refer to a person’s status or position, such as “senior vice president” or “senior citizen.” This rule helps to avoid ambiguity and ensures that the intended meaning is clear.
Rule 7: Use “Teen” or “Teenager” Instead of “Teenage”
The AP Stylebook recommends using “teen” or “teenager” instead of “teenage” to describe people between the ages of 13 and 19. For example, “the teenager” is preferred over “the teenage boy.” This rule helps to avoid confusion and ensures that the intended meaning is clear.
Rule 8: Hyphenate “Mid-” When Used with Ages
When “mid-” is used with ages, it should be hyphenated. For example, “mid-30s” is correct, while “mid 30s” is not. This rule applies to all ages, from “mid-20s” to “mid-100s” and beyond.
Rule 9: Avoid Using Ages to Describe a Group of People
Ages should not be used to describe a group of people. Instead of saying “the 30s crowd,” say “people in their 30s” or “30-year-olds.” This rule helps to avoid ambiguity and ensures that the intended meaning is clear.
Rule 10: Be Mindful of Cultural and Personal Sensitivities
When referring to a person’s age, be mindful of cultural and personal sensitivities. Avoid using language that is offensive or insensitive, and be respectful of people’s ages and backgrounds. This rule applies to all individuals, regardless of their age or profession.
Rule 11: Use Ages in a Way That Is Respectful and Accurate
Finally, the AP Stylebook recommends using ages in a way that is respectful and accurate. Avoid using language that is stereotypical or discriminatory, and be mindful of the impact of your words on your readers. By following these guidelines, writers can ensure that their work is accurate, engaging, and free of potential pitfalls.
| Age Range | AP Style Recommendation |
|---|---|
| 1-12 | Use figures, hyphenate as modifiers |
| 13-19 | Use "teen" or "teenager" instead of "teenage" |
| 20-100+ | Use figures, hyphenate as modifiers, avoid using ages as nouns |
What is the AP Style recommendation for referring to a person's age?
+The AP Stylebook recommends using figures to express ages, with a few exceptions. Ages should be hyphenated as modifiers, and should not be used as nouns. Be specific when referring to a person's age, and use "older" and "younger" instead of "elder" and "junior."
How do I refer to a group of people of different ages?
+Avoid using ages to describe a group of people. Instead, say "people in their 30s" or "30-year-olds." This helps to avoid ambiguity and ensures that the intended meaning is clear.
What is the AP Style recommendation for using "mid-" with ages?
+The AP Stylebook recommends hyphenating "mid-" when used with ages. For example, "mid-30s" is correct, while "mid 30s" is not.
By following the 11 essential AP Style age rules, writers can ensure that their work is accurate, engaging, and free of potential pitfalls. Remember to use figures for ages, hyphenate ages as modifiers, and avoid using ages as nouns. Be specific when referring to a person’s age, and use “older” and “younger” instead of “elder” and “junior.” Finally, be mindful of cultural and personal sensitivities, and use ages in a way that is respectful and accurate. With practice and attention to detail, writers can master the AP Style age rules and produce flawless writing.