"is a child" vs "is a child's thing"

Question

"is a child" vs "is a child's thing"

The two phrases are not directly comparable as they have different structures and meanings. 'Is a child's thing' implies that something is related to or suitable for a child, while 'is a child' simply states that someone is a child. Therefore, the correct choice depends on the context in which you want to use the phrase.

Last Updated: March 20, 2024

This phrase is used to describe the age of a person, indicating that they are young.

Examples:

The protagonist of the story is a child.
She is a child prodigy.
The suspect is a child, not an adult.
Being a child is a precious time in life.
He is a child at heart.

This phrase is used to describe objects, activities, or behaviors that are typically associated with children.

Examples:

Playing with toys is a child's thing.
Watching cartoons is a child's thing.
Eating candy is a child's thing.
Coloring books are a child's thing.
Imaginary friends are a child's thing.

Answer 1

is a child

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to simply state that someone is a child.

Answer 2

is a child's thing

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to indicate that something is related to or suitable for a child.

"is a child" vs "is a child's thing"

is a child

is a child's thing

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