youthful innocence
Unspoiled early wonder
Youthful innocence describes the state of being untouched by worldly corruption, cynicism, or harsh experience that characterizes childhood and early adolescence.
It suggests a purity of outlook, trust in others, and lack of awareness about life's darker aspects.
The phrase often carries nostalgic overtones when adults reflect on what they've lost: There was a youthful innocence about her that made everyone protective.
Something may shatter or destroy youthful innocence when a person encounters trauma, betrayal, or disillusionment.
- tabula rasaUnmarked mental starting point
- blank slateUnmarked starting point
- springtimeSeason following winter
- daisiesWhite-rayed composite flowers
- playfulnessLighthearted, frisky spirit
lambs · first steps · purity · pure of heart · optimism · rose-colored glasses · naivety · wide-eyed wonder · wonder · curiosity · puppy love · kindness · simplicity · idealism · vulnerability · childhood · carefree days · skinned knees
- school poetrynursery rhymes, counting rhymes, graduation poems, jump rope rhymes, educational themes
youthful innocenceworldly wisdom
Practical knowledge of affairs
worldliness · experience · sophistication · street smarts · world-weariness
youthful innocencecorruption
Dishonest abuse of power
moral corruption · depravity · wickedness · sinfulness · guilt
youth, youthful, youthfully, youthfulness, younger, youngest, youngster, youngish, innocent