Elderly vs. Elderlies: Know the Difference
By Shumaila Saeed || Updated on December 25, 2023
'Elderly' is an adjective or collective noun describing older adults, while 'elderlies' is a less common plural form referring to multiple elderly individuals.
Key Differences
'Elderly' is primarily used as an adjective to describe older people or as a collective noun, while 'elderlies' is a plural noun used to refer specifically to multiple elderly individuals.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 29, 2023
'Elderly' is a more commonly used term in both formal and informal contexts. 'Elderlies,' though grammatically correct, is less commonly used and can be seen as less formal.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 29, 2023
'Elderly' is broadly used to refer to the older segment of the population in various contexts. 'Elderlies' might be used in specific contexts where individual elderly people are being specifically referred to.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 29, 2023
The use of 'elderly' is generally accepted and respectful when referring to older adults. The term 'elderlies,' while not disrespectful, is less standard and can sound awkward or overly informal in some contexts.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 29, 2023
In different English-speaking cultures, the preference between 'elderly' and 'elderlies' may vary, with some cultures rarely using 'elderlies.'
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 29, 2023
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Comparison Chart
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Elderly and Elderlies Definitions
Elderly
Relating to older adults.
Elderly care is an important aspect of healthcare.
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Nov 21, 2023
Elderlies
More than one elderly person.
The elderlies at the park were enjoying a sunny day.
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Nov 21, 2023
Elderly
Pertaining to an advanced age.
Elderly individuals often require specialized medical attention.
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Nov 21, 2023
Elderlies
Elderly people considered collectively.
The new policy aims to benefit the elderlies in our society.
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Nov 21, 2023
Elderly
Relating to the later stages of life.
She volunteers at a center for the elderly.
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Nov 21, 2023
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Elderlies
A group of older individuals.
The community center hosts activities for the elderlies.
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Nov 21, 2023
Elderly
The older segment of the population.
The elderly comprise a significant portion of the community.
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Nov 21, 2023
Elderlies
Several senior citizens.
A group of elderlies visited the museum today.
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Nov 21, 2023
Elderlies
A number of older adults.
The health program focuses on the needs of the elderlies.
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Nov 21, 2023
Elderly
Of, relating to, or characteristic of older persons or life in later years.
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Oct 19, 2023
Elderlies
Of, relating to, or characteristic of older persons or life in later years.
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Oct 19, 2023
Elderly
Pl. elderly (used with a pl. verb) Older people considered as a group. Often used with the
Special recreational programs for the elderly.
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Oct 19, 2023
Elderlies
Pl. elderly (used with a pl. verb) Older people considered as a group. Often used with the
Special recreational programs for the elderly.
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
Elderly
Somewhat old; advanced beyond middle age; bordering on old age; as, elderly people.
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Oct 19, 2023
Elderly
Advanced in years; (`aged' is pronounced as two syllables);
Aged members of the society
Elderly residents could remember the construction of the first skyscraper
Senior citizen
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Oct 19, 2023
Elderly
A group of older people.
Special programs are available for the elderly.
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Nov 21, 2023
Repeatedly Asked Queries
Can 'elderlies' be used in formal writing?
It's less common in formal writing; 'elderly' is preferred.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 29, 2023
Is 'elderlies' a proper English word?
Yes, but it's less commonly used and can sound informal.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 29, 2023
Is 'elderly' respectful?
Yes, 'elderly' is generally considered a respectful term.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 29, 2023
Does 'elderly' refer to a specific age group?
'Elderly' usually refers to people in their retirement years, though the specific age can vary.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 29, 2023
Can 'elderly' be used as a noun?
Yes, as a collective noun referring to older people in general.
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Nov 29, 2023
How is 'elderly' used in healthcare?
It's used to describe care or conditions related to older adults.
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Nov 29, 2023
What is the plural of 'elderly'?
'Elderly' can be both singular and plural as a collective noun. 'Elderlies' is also used as a plural form.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 29, 2023
Do 'elderly' and 'elderlies' have different connotations?
'Elderly' is more neutral and standard, while 'elderlies' can sound more informal.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 29, 2023
Is using 'elderlies' considered derogatory?
Not necessarily derogatory, but it's less formal and less standard.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 29, 2023
Can 'elderlies' be used in healthcare settings?
It's less common and might be viewed as less professional.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 29, 2023
Can both terms be used interchangeably?
Generally, yes, but 'elderly' is more universally appropriate and standard.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 29, 2023
Is 'elderlies' found in English dictionaries?
It may appear in some dictionaries but is not as widely recognized.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 29, 2023
Can 'elderly' be used in legal contexts?
Yes, it's often used in legal and policy-making contexts.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 29, 2023
Can 'elderlies' be used affectionately?
It can be, though it depends on the context and tone.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 29, 2023
Does 'elderlies' have a specific cultural usage?
It might be used more in certain dialects or cultural contexts.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 29, 2023
Can 'elderly' describe objects or places?
Rarely. It's primarily used to describe people.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 29, 2023
Is 'elderly' used globally in English-speaking countries?
Yes, it's widely used and understood in English-speaking countries.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 29, 2023
Is 'elderlies' commonly used in American English?
It's less common in American English compared to 'elderly.'
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 29, 2023
Does 'elderlies' imply a certain level of care needed?
Not specifically; it just refers to multiple elderly individuals.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 29, 2023
Is 'elderly' appropriate in medical journals?
Yes, it's commonly used in medical and academic writings.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 29, 2023
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About Author
Written by
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed, an expert content creator with 6 years of experience, specializes in distilling complex topics into easily digestible comparisons, shining a light on the nuances that both inform and educate readers with clarity and accuracy.
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