Common English Mistakes: Saying "I Have 25 Years" | On Your Mark's English

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A grammar poster comparing "I have 25 years" (Wrong) vs "I am 25 years old" (Correct)

The "Translation" Trap

If you speak Spanish, French, Italian, or Portuguese, this is probably your #1 mistake.

In your language, you say "I have years" (Tengo 20 años / J'ai 20 ans).

But English is different.

The Logic

In English, we view age as a state of being, not a possession.

You cannot "hold" or "have" your years. You simply are that age.

The Rule

Always use the verb TO BE (Am, Is, Are) + The Number.

• ❌ Incorrect: "My brother has 10 years."

• ✅ Correct: "My brother is 10 years old."

• ❌ Incorrect: "I have 30 years."

• ✅ Correct: "I am 30." (Or "I am 30 years old").

  
  

A Small Detail

You can say:

1. "I am 30." (Common)

2. "I am 30 years old." (Formal)

But NEVER say: "I am 30 years." ❌ (You must finish with "old" if you use the word "years")

Your Turn

How old are you? Practice the correct verb below! "I ______ [Your Age]."

Write your answer in the comments down below.

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