Asking someone's age
Informal Depends on context
What it really means
Asking an adult's age — especially a woman's, and especially at work — is generally considered too personal in Britain. Between young people or close friends it's usually fine. If it matters (for tickets, discounts), explain why you're asking, or let them offer the information themselves.
Chinese explanation
在英国，问成年人的年龄——尤其是女性、尤其在职场——通常被认为太私人。年轻人之间或好友之间一般没问题。如果确实需要知道（买票、优惠等），要说明原因，或者等对方自己说。
Example conversation
A: Is asking someone's age rude here? In my country it's normal.
B: With adults, yeah, it can land badly — especially at work. I'd just not ask.
A：在这里问别人年龄算失礼吗？在我们国家很正常。
B：对成年人来说，是的，容易引起不快——尤其在职场。我建议干脆别问。
What you could say back
No spoken reply needed for this one.
Related phrases
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Reviewed by the UK Decoded editorial team
· Last checked 24 July 2026 · Report a mistake