an old thing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an old thing" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to an object, concept, or idea that is considered outdated or has been around for a long time. Example: "This is just an old thing that nobody uses anymore."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Lifestyle

General Discussion

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

21 human-written examples

"It's an old thing," he shrugs.

The Guardian - Film

In fact, it is an old thing.

The Guardian - Books

This is only an old thing".

The New Yorker

But some people prefer their next new thing to look like an old thing.

The New York Times - Tech

It's to do with restoration, repainting, keeping an old thing alive.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

They sound like an old thing, but they're a new thing.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

"People always expect me to be a dear old thing in a cottage with roses round the door and a pussy cat on my knee," says Babette Cole.

The Guardian

It's a scrubby old thing, not a sturdy tree.

Los Angeles Times

It's an old, old thing.

The Guardian - Opinion

Ecademy, is an odd old thing.

TechCrunch

You might say, "This is such a boring old thing, two married people having an affair".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about history, use "an old thing" to create a sense of nostalgia or to show how perspectives have changed over time. For example, "What was once considered innovative is now just an old thing".

Common error

Avoid using "an old thing" in formal or academic writing, where more precise and sophisticated language is expected. Opt for alternatives like "outdated", "antiquated", or "obsolete" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an old thing" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often used as a subject complement or object to describe something that is outdated, no longer relevant, or simply aged. Ludwig shows that it often appears in informal contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Lifestyle

22%

Wiki

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "an old thing" is a grammatically correct and relatively common expression used to describe something outdated or no longer relevant. Ludwig AI affirms its usage across various contexts, although it is most frequently found in news, media and lifestyle content. While suitable for informal and neutral settings, more precise language may be preferred in formal writing. Alternatives include ""a thing of the past"" or ""outdated"", offering a range of options to suit different communicative needs. Remember to consider the audience and context when choosing between "an old thing" and its alternatives.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a thing of the past

Focuses on something that no longer exists or is relevant.

a bygone era

Emphasizes a period in history that is over.

an outdated concept

Highlights that an idea is no longer current or applicable.

a relic of the past

Suggests something surviving from an earlier time, often with historical significance.

a vintage item

Implies something old but valued for its age and quality.

an antique

Refers to something old and often valuable, typically a collectible.

something old-fashioned

Highlights the lack of current style or modernity.

a traditional practice

Emphasizes that a custom has been followed for many years.

a long-established custom

Highlights the duration and acceptance of a particular habit or ritual.

a historical artifact

Indicates an object made by humans with cultural or historical interest.

FAQs

How can I use "an old thing" in a sentence?

You can use "an old thing" to refer to something that is outdated or no longer relevant, as in "That technology is "an old thing"; we use much more advanced systems now".

What can I say instead of "an old thing"?

Alternatives to "an old thing" include "a thing of the past", "outdated", or "antiquated", depending on the specific context.

Is "an old thing" appropriate for formal writing?

While "an old thing" is grammatically correct, it is generally more suitable for informal contexts. In formal writing, consider using more precise terms such as "obsolete" or "outmoded".

What's the difference between "an old thing" and "a vintage item"?

"An old thing" generally refers to something simply outdated, while "a vintage item" suggests something old but valued for its age and style. The latter often carries a positive connotation.