What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
obsoleted
Example
The company obsoleted their old software and released a new version. [obsoleted: verb]
Example
Fax machines have become obsoleted in the age of email and digital communication. [obsoleted: adjective]
outdated
Example
The information on the website was outdated and needed to be updated. [outdated: adjective]
Example
Her outfit was outdated and looked like it was from a different era. [outdated: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Outdated is more commonly used than obsoleted in everyday language. Outdated is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while obsoleted is less common and has a more specific meaning.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between obsoleted and outdated?
Obsoleted can have a more technical or formal connotation, while outdated is more commonly used in informal contexts. However, both words can be used in formal or technical writing depending on the context.