What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
outdate
Example
The information on the website is outdated. [outdated: adjective]
Example
This software will soon be outdated and need to be updated. [outdated: verb]
obsolete
Example
Typewriters are now obsolete. [obsolete: adjective]
Example
This technology has been rendered obsolete by newer advancements. [obsolete: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Obsolete is more commonly used than outdate in technical and formal contexts, such as in academic writing or technical manuals. Outdate is more commonly used in everyday language and informal contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between outdate and obsolete?
Obsolete is more formal and technical than outdate, which is more casual and colloquial. Therefore, obsolete is more appropriate in formal or technical contexts, while outdate is more appropriate in informal or everyday language contexts.
