20S

The 20s, in English, can refer to two related concepts. It may denote the decade spanning years that end in “20s,” most commonly the 1920s or the 2020s, depending on the historical period being discussed. It can also refer to people who are in their twenties, i.e., those aged 20 to 29. The exact meaning is determined by context.

As a historical decade, the 1920s are often described as a period of rapid social and economic change in many Western countries. The era saw significant technological advancement, urbanization, and the growth of mass consumer culture, aided by innovations such as automobiles, radio, and cinema. It was associated with cultural experimentation, the Jazz Age, and shifts in social norms, including greater visibility for women in public life. In some places, women gained suffrage during this period (for example, in 1920 in the United States with the 19th Amendment). The decade ended with economic instability that culminated in the stock market crash of 1929 and the onset of the Great Depression in the following years, which had global repercussions.

As an age group, people in their twenties are typically transitioning from school to work, pursuing higher education or early career positions, and forming personal and financial independence. This life stage often involves establishing long-term relationships, making decisions about housing, career paths, and family planning. Social and economic experiences in the twenties can vary widely across cultures, countries, and individual circumstances.

In usage, the term 20s is contextual and can refer to either the decade or the age group, and may also indicate other decades ending in 20, such as the 2020s or historical decades like the 1920s.