Age before beauty Meaning in English
expression
Definition
A lighthearted phrase used to let an older person go first, often as a joke when offering to let someone go ahead in a line or through a door.
Usage & Nuances
Used humorously and is mildly formal; typical in polite social interactions when two people gesture for the other to go first. Usually spoken by the older person to downplay their age. Not to be used in very serious or formal contexts.
Example Sentences
"Age before beauty!" he said, letting his grandmother go first.
basic
When they reached the door, she smiled and said, "Age before beauty."
basic
He insisted, "Age before beauty," and let the older man board the bus first.
basic
Whenever my dad opens the door for my mom, he jokes, "Age before beauty."
natural
At parties, Uncle Joe always says "age before beauty" when offering someone a seat.
natural
He laughed and said, "Age before beauty, I suppose!" letting his older colleague go ahead in the buffet line.
natural