age-old

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "age-old" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe something that has existed for a very long time, often referring to traditions, beliefs, or practices. Example: "The age-old debate about nature versus nurture continues to spark discussions among scientists and philosophers."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

51 human-written examples

An age-old question.

The New York Times

"It's age-old politics".

The New York Times

Then began the age-old negotiation.

The New York Times

Calvin Trillin settles an age-old dispute.

The New Yorker

It's the age-old questions".

The Guardian

It's an age-old scenario.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

7 human-written examples

The theory was age old.

The Guardian

See also aging; old age.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Stuff happens.The underlying issue is ages old.

The Economist

Age old dilemma".

BBC

It's the age old tale.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "age-old" to add a sense of historical depth or tradition to your writing. It's effective for describing long-standing problems, debates, or practices.

Common error

Avoid using "age-old" for relatively recent issues or trends. It should primarily describe matters with genuinely deep historical roots to maintain its impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "age-old" primarily functions as an adjective, modifying nouns to describe something that has existed for a very long time. As indicated by Ludwig, it is used to characterize issues, traditions, or questions with deep historical roots.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

79%

Science

10%

Wiki

6%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "age-old" functions as an adjective, denoting something of great age or long-standing duration. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage. Primarily found in News & Media, it effectively conveys the historical depth and enduring nature of traditions, problems, or questions. Alternatives include "ancient" and "time-honored". To maintain its impact, avoid overusing "age-old" in contexts that lack genuine historical significance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Ancient

Implies a very old origin, often associated with historical periods.

Time-honored

Suggests a tradition or practice that is respected due to its long history.

Long-standing

Indicates something that has existed for a considerable period.

Established

Focuses on the firm establishment and acceptance of something over time.

Traditional

Emphasizes adherence to customs or practices passed down through generations.

Venerable

Suggests something that is respected and admired due to its age and history.

Deep-rooted

Implies that something is firmly established and difficult to change due to its long history.

Well-established

Highlights the long-term existence and acceptance of something.

Enduring

Focuses on the lasting quality and persistence of something over time.

Long-lived

Emphasizes the extended duration or lifespan of something.

FAQs

How can I use "age-old" in a sentence?

You can use "age-old" to describe traditions, problems, or questions that have existed for a very long time. For example, "The "age-old question" of nature versus nurture continues to be debated."

What are some alternatives to "age-old"?

Some alternatives to "age-old" include "ancient", "time-honored", or "long-standing", depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "age-old" in formal writing?

Yes, "age-old" is appropriate in formal writing when describing issues or traditions with genuinely deep historical roots. It adds a sense of historical perspective.

What's the difference between "age-old" and "old"?

"Old" simply indicates something that has existed for a while. "Age-old" implies a much longer and more significant history, often associated with tradition or enduring relevance.