A person showing unusual maturity and thoughtful understanding.
Reach for it when affectionately describing someone whose maturity or tastes seem older than their years
Everyone trusted the old soul's calm advice during disagreements.
| playful | |
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| everyday | |
| warm |
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| professional | |
| formal | |
| literary |
playful
homebody
Fits when quiet familiar pleasures are the point
Careful A homebody can be any age and maturity.
everyday
Fits when careful consideration is what deserves praise
Careful Thoughtfulness does not imply old-fashioned taste.
warm
wise beyond their years
Fits when unusual youthful judgment is the exact praise
Careful The phrase can burden a child with adult expectations.
professional
Fits when behavior and judgment suit an older stage
Careful Mature is broader and less affectionate.
formal
traditionalist
Fits when preference for older customs is central
Careful Traditionalism says nothing about emotional maturity.
literary
Fits when unusual wisdom deserves elevated praise
Careful Sage may sound grandiose beside ordinary maturity.
gentle old soul
The gentle old soul preferred letters to hurried messages.
something of an old soul
Even at twelve, he was something of an old soul.
call someone an old soul
Friends call Mina an old soul because she listens before advising.
Keep in mind
Old soul is affectionate but can stereotype a child or romanticize seriousness; use it as a light impression, not a diagnosis.
Definitions and examples are written for this site. How words are chosen Updated
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