peer group: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples

Not exactly. A friend group is based on mutual affection. A peer group is defined by similarity (age, status, experience). All members of your friend group may be your peers, but your peer group (e.g., all colleagues at your level) may not all be your friends.

Yes. While often associated with youth, it applies to any life stage (e.g., 'a peer group of new parents', 'a peer group of mid-career professionals').

A cohort is a statistical group sharing a common characteristic (like a birth year). A peer group is an active social group with interaction and mutual influence. A cohort can contain many separate peer groups.

No. While often discussed negatively, peer influence can be positive (e.g., a peer group that values academic achievement can motivate its members). The neutral term is 'peer influence'; 'peer pressure' implies a more forceful, often negative, dynamic.

A social group composed of individuals of similar age, status, or interests.

Peer group is usually formal, academic, sociological in register.

Peer group: in British English it is pronounced /ˈpɪə ɡruːp/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈpɪr ɡruːp/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.