How does the noun epoch differ from other similar words?
Some common synonyms of epoch are age, era, and period. While all these words mean "a division of time," epoch applies to a period begun or set off by some significant or striking quality, change, or series of events.
the steam engine marked a new epoch in industry
When is it sensible to use age instead of epoch?
The meanings of age and epoch largely overlap; however, age is used frequently of a fairly definite period dominated by a prominent figure or feature.
the age of Samuel Johnson
When might era be a better fit than epoch?
Although the words era and epoch have much in common, era suggests a period of history marked by a new or distinct order of things.
the era of global communications
In what contexts can period take the place of epoch?
While in some cases nearly identical to epoch, period may designate an extent of time of any length.
periods of economic prosperity
Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of epochKurzweil graciously concedes that there may be a few growing pains through these final epochs.—Becca Rothfeld, Washington Post, 26 June 2024 Major Craters on Earth To garner the results of this study, the research team looked at the impacts of two major asteroids from the late Eocene epoch (about 38 million years to 33 million years ago).—Monica Cull, Discover Magazine, 5 Dec. 2024 The Clovis people were prehistoric Native Americans who lived roughly 13,000 years ago in North America near the end of the Pleistocene epoch.—Jason Fields, Newsweek, 5 Dec. 2024 The paleontologists determined the cub to be 35,000 to 37,000 years old − from the late Pleistocene epoch, more commonly known as the Ice Age, Lopatin said.—Greta Cross, USA TODAY, 20 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for epoch
Taking the beautiful age-old techniques and craftsmanship from bygone eras, rich cultures, and ethnicities to new heights.
—
Sydney Gore,
Architectural Digest,
6 Feb. 2025
This discussion will touch on themes of artistic intuition, the role of photography in shaping environmental consciousness, and how visual storytelling can become a tool for transformation in an era of climate crisis.
During a panel at '90s Con in Florida in September, Melrose Place stars Locklear, Josie Bissett, Brooke Langton, Laura Leighton, Grant Show and Daphne Zuniga reunited and shared an update on where the revival series stood at the time.
—
Erin Clack,
People.com,
16 Feb. 2025
Coca-Cola entered the right category at the right time, Citi analyst Filippo Falorni told CNN.
The festival, a beloved Presidents Day weekend tradition, continues Sunday and Monday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Haulover Park, north of Miami Beach, offering kite-flying demonstrations, activities for all ages, and a chance to experience the magic of the wind.
—
Matias J. Ocner,
Miami Herald,
16 Feb. 2025
Applying early — before her full retirement age of 67 — means settling for a smaller check.
—
Liz Weston,
San Diego Union-Tribune,
16 Feb. 2025
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