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 epochResearchers hope the discovery will provide some new insights about the first inhabitants of Western Europe during the Early Pleistocene epoch.—Bradford Betz, Fox News, 13 Mar. 2025 The ancient oceans of the Eocene epoch teemed with lifeforms that today seem almost otherworldly.—Scott Travers, Forbes, 13 Mar. 2025 The earliest epoch of the universe was marked by incredibly hot and dense conditions.—Robert Lea, Space.com, 12 Mar. 2025 Big contrasts also can be seen in the times of their prominence, although both emerged at the end of their respective epochs and foreshadowed elements of what was to come.—Robert W. Merry, Washington Examiner - Political News and Conservative Analysis About Congress, the President, and the Federal Government, 7 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for epoch
Now the Trump administration ushered in a new era of immigration raids, fewer protections from the city and the new fear that churches could be targeted by immigration officials.
—
Eduardo Cuevas,
USA Today,
20 Apr. 2025
Now, advocates say President Trump's second term has ushered in a new era of fear for adoptees without citizenship.
The day that promotes environmental protection and awareness is celebrating its 55th anniversary.
—
Rebecca Morin,
USA Today,
23 Apr. 2025
In response to his comments, Mr. Trump took aim at the Fed chair, writing in a social media post the following day that the central bank should be cutting interest rates.
The Oilers tied the game late in third period, but the Kings celebrated a 6-5 victory in Game 1.
—
Chantz Martin,
FOXNews.com,
25 Apr. 2025
The Heat still kept pushing and the Cavaliers went cold in the third quarter, shooting 8 of 24 (33.3 percent) from the field and 4 of 15 (26.7 percent) on threes in the period.
The National Civilian Community Corps deployed adults between the ages of 18 and 26 to work for weeks at a time to serve in communities, working on disaster response, environmental conservation and wildfire prevention across the country.
—
Aishvarya Kavi,
New York Times,
18 Apr. 2025
There are two different vaccines available based on age.
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