in their prime

Meanings

1. 1phrasefixed phrase

   at the time of life when someone is strongest, healthiest, or most successful

   Grammar: Used after be or in phrases like 'in their prime'; the possessive changes with the subject.

   Patterns

   • be in their prime
   • in his prime
   • in her prime
   • in its prime

   The pianist was in her prime when she recorded that album.

   Many athletes retire while they are still in their prime.

   He was in his prime, full of energy and ideas.

2. 2phrasefixed phrase

   at the best or most successful period of something's existence

   Grammar: Often used for organizations, buildings, or machines: in its prime.

   Patterns

   • in its prime
   • in their prime

   The hotel was in its prime in the 1920s.

   The car is old but still runs well, even if it is not in its prime.

Common combinations

in his prime

The boxer was unbeatable in his prime.

in her prime

She wrote her best novels in her prime.

in its prime

The theater was in its prime fifty years ago.

past their prime

Some critics say the band is past its prime.

Synonyms and how they differ

at their peak

Very close in meaning; 'at their peak' often suggests the highest point, while 'in their prime' suggests the strongest, healthiest period.

in their heyday

Usually used for a past period of great success, especially for places or industries, not for a person's health.

Opposites

Commonly confused: in their prime or in their prime?

Practice

Make it your own

Write a sentence using “in their prime”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.

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