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generation

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clogs to clogs in three generations

The idea that a family can escape poverty for a time but then become impoverished again, all in the span of three generations. Primarily heard in UK. With the way you're spending our family's money, we'll be clogs to clogs in three generations!

See also: clog, generation, three

generation gap

The difference of opinions and attitudes, especially in relation to social changes and politics, that develop as each generation changes from the one before it. Attitudes toward gay marriage reflects a clear generation gap on the issue today.

See also: gap, generation

Generation X

 and Generation X'er

people reaching puberty during the 1970s and 1980s. Three or four generation X'ers were in the antique store looking eagerly at some of those horrible old dinette chairs from the 1950s.

See also: generation

a generation gap

the lack of understanding between older and younger people that is caused by their different experiences, opinions and behaviour It is unusual for a singer to bridge the generation gap and appeal to both young and old alike. There's a big age difference between us but we've never been troubled by a generation gap.

See also: gap, generation

generation gap

A broad difference in values and attitudes between one generation and another, especially between parents and their children. For example, There's a real generation gap in their choice of music, restaurants, clothing-you name it . [1960s"

See also: gap, generation

now generation

n. the (once current) generation of young people who seemed to want only instant gratification. All those people in the now generation want to start out with fancy cars and nice houses.

See also: generation, now