What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
oldie
Example
I love listening to oldies music from the 60s and 70s. [oldies: noun]
Example
This car is such an oldie, it's been around for decades. [oldie: adjective]
throwback
Example
That outfit is such a throwback to the 90s. [throwback: noun]
Example
I love how this song has a throwback sound to the Motown era. [throwback: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Throwback is more commonly used than oldie in everyday language, especially in the context of social media and pop culture. Throwback has become a popular hashtag on platforms like Instagram and Twitter, while oldie is less commonly used.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between oldie and throwback?
Both oldie and throwback are relatively informal words that are used in casual conversation and pop culture contexts. However, oldie may be seen as slightly more formal due to its association with music and entertainment history.