Young at Heart: One Youth, Two Youths, Red Youth, Blue Youth!

Young at Heart: One Youth, Two Youths, Red Youth, Blue Youth!

Understanding the Difference Between “Youth” and “Youths”

The words “youth” and “youths” both talk about young people. But, they are used in different ways. Let’s learn more about these words, when to use them, and how to remember the difference.

History of the Words

The word “youth” comes from an old English word geoguð, which means young people or being young. “Youths” is just the plural form of the word “youth” when talking about more than one young person.

How to Use Them

Youth

The word “youth” can mean a single young person or be used to talk about young people in general. Sometimes, it also describes the time when someone is young.

• The youth was very excited about the new soccer game.
• The museum has an art section for youth.
• In my youth, I loved to read comic books.
• The city park is a place where youth can play and have fun.
• Our community program supports youth activities.

Youths

The word “youths” is used when we are talking about more than one young person. It makes it clear that there are several young individuals.

• The library was full of youths reading books.
• Several youths joined the summer camp.
• Three youths played at the basketball court.
• The teacher invited the youths to share their ideas.
• There are many programs for youths in our town.

Trick to Remember the Difference

To remember which word to use, think about numbers. If you are talking about just one young person or young people as a group, use “youth”. If you can count them, like “three youths,” then use “youths”.

Summary

“Youth” can mean one young person or young people in general. It’s also a time in life. “Youths” is the plural form when you can count the number of young people. Remember, use “youth” for general or single terms and “youths” when talking about many young people you can count.