Definitions and Examples of old-fashioned, outdated, obsolete
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
old-fashioned
Belonging to or characteristic of a past era; not modern.
Example
She prefers old-fashioned dresses with frills and lace.
No longer in use or fashionable; obsolete.
Example
The computer system was outdated and needed an upgrade.
No longer produced or used; out of date.
Example
The company stopped making typewriters because they became obsolete.
Key Differences: old-fashioned vs outdated vs obsolete
- 1Old-fashioned suggests something that is from a past era, but it may still be used or appreciated for its traditional or nostalgic value.
- 2Outdated implies that something is no longer useful or effective because it has been replaced by newer technology or ideas.
- 3Obsolete means that something is no longer produced or used because it is completely outdated and irrelevant.
Effective Usage of old-fashioned, outdated, obsolete
- 1Fashion: Use old-fashioned to describe clothing styles from the past.
- 2Technology: Use outdated to describe old technology that has been replaced by newer versions.
- 3History: Use obsolete to describe things that are no longer used or relevant in modern times.
Remember this!
The antonyms of contemporary describe things that are no longer current or modern. Old-fashioned suggests something from a past era, outdated implies something is no longer useful, and obsolete means something is completely outdated and irrelevant. These words can be used to describe fashion, technology, and history.