immature - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
immature Word Meanings
- not fully developed or grown
- lacking maturity or sophistication
- childish or naive
immature Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
immature Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˌɪməˈtjʊə/
US
/ˌɪməˈtʃʊr/
immature Word Etymology
Root decomposition: 'im-' (not) + 'mature' (fully developed). Historical origin: Latin 'immaturus' → Old French 'immature' → English 'immature'. Memory image: Imagine a green fruit that hasn't ripened yet, symbolizing potential yet to be realized.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Immature describes something not fully developed or grown, including a person’s emotional or intellectual state, or a process, idea, or object that has not yet reached full development. The word carries a negative nuance when used about people, implying a lack of judgment, restraint, or experience, but it can also describe behavior that is not appropriate for a given situation. For fruits or other growths, you would often use unripe rather than immature. Etymology traces to im- meaning not and mature meaning fully developed; through Latin immaturus to Old French immatur, then into English as immature. Learners sometimes confuse it with unripe, but immaturity is about development, not merely age. With mature as the opposite, you can discuss growth stages, responsibilities, and readiness more precisely.
Usage Reminders
- Use for people or ideas that lack development or maturity; not typically for fruits.
- Not a synonym of young or childish; it focuses on maturity, not age.
- The opposite is mature; use mature to describe readiness or sophistication.
- Can describe behavior that is inappropriate or rash for a situation.
- Pair with adjectives like 'immature decision' or 'immature behavior' to show judgment issues.
Common Misconceptions
- Immature = young or childish by default
- Unripe and immature are interchangeable for all contexts
- Only people can be immature, not ideas or plans
- Immature always sounds insulting
- Mature always means old or senior
Thinking Differences
In English, immaturity often targets behavior or ideas rather than age alone; learners mistake it as only a critique of youth. Focus on context and tone to avoid misusing it as a casual compliment or a blanket insult.
Learning Tips
- Create paired sentences with immature and mature to see contrast.
- Practice with both people and non-human subjects (ideas, plans).
- Note the tone: negative for people, neutral or neutral-positive for ideas.
- Watch collocations: immature decision, immature behavior, immature attitude.
- Compare with unripe for fruits to avoid wrong usage.
- Use a reverse dictionary to confirm antonyms and nuances.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does the word 'immature' mean?
A.Extremely wise
B.Underdeveloped or not mature
C.Highly skilled
D.Very serious
Step 2: Usage
Choose the correct use of the word 'immature' in a sentence.
A.His mature argument demonstrated his immature thinking.
B.She acted in an immature manner despite being an adult.
C.The wine was immature because it was stored for too long.
D.Her immature decision made her feel more responsible.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'immature'?
A.Professional
B.Naive
C.Sophisticated
D.Serious
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'immature'?
A.Experienced
B.Childish
C.Unsophisticated
D.Inexperienced
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life scenario where someone might appear immature?
A.A child working on a complex math problem.
B.A person giving great advice to friends.
C.A 30-year-old throwing a tantrum over a lost game.
D.An adult discussing global issues thoughtfully.
Want to practice more words?
Download LexiTalk app for personalized learning experience
Download App