What is the difference between obsolete and antiquated?

Definitions

obsolete

- Referring to something that is no longer in use or has become outdated.

- Talking about a technology, product, or idea that has been replaced by newer and more advanced versions.

- Describing a practice, custom, or tradition that is no longer relevant or useful in modern times.

antiquated

- Referring to something that is old-fashioned, outdated, or no longer in use.

- Talking about a practice, idea, or belief that is considered old-fashioned or outmoded.

- Describing a system, method, or process that is no longer efficient or effective in modern times.

List of Similarities

• 1. Both words describe something that is outdated or no longer in use.
• 2. Both words can be used to refer to technology, ideas, practices, or systems.
• 3. Both words suggest that something has been replaced by newer and more advanced versions.
• 4. Both words have negative connotations and imply that something is no longer relevant or useful.

What is the difference?

• 1. Age: Obsolete suggests that something is no longer in use because it is too old, while antiquated implies that something is old-fashioned or outmoded.
• 2. Usage: Obsolete is often used to describe technology or products that have been replaced by newer versions, while antiquated can be used to describe ideas, practices, or systems that are no longer effective or efficient.
• 3. Connotation: Obsolete has a stronger negative connotation than antiquated, implying that something is completely useless or irrelevant, while antiquated suggests that something may still have some value or historical significance.
• 4. Scope: Obsolete is a broader term that can refer to anything that is no longer in use, while antiquated is more specific and usually refers to something that is old-fashioned or outdated.
• 5. Frequency: Obsolete is more commonly used than antiquated in everyday language.

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Remember this!

Obsolete and antiquated are synonyms that describe something that is outdated or no longer in use. However, obsolete suggests that something is no longer in use because it is too old or has been replaced by newer and more advanced versions, while antiquated implies that something is old-fashioned or outmoded. Obsolete is a broader term that can refer to anything that is no longer in use, while antiquated is more specific and usually refers to something that is old-fashioned or outdated.