The subtle distinctions between "childish" and "immature"

Reviewed and edited by

Anwar Kareem 01/10/2024, 23:52

English.me team member

Childish and immature. What's the difference?

What is similar?

Both describe behavior that is not fully developed or grown-up.

What is different?

Childish often connotes behavior typical of a young child, sometimes with a playful or simplistic tone, while immature can imply a lack of development or sophistication, regardless of actual age.

Which one is more common?

Examples of usage

Childish

Stop being so childish and take responsibility for your actions.
Her childish giggle was infectious.

Immature

His response to criticism was immature and defensive.
She displayed immature behavior despite her advanced age.