antiquated

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "antiquated" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is outdated or no longer in use, often referring to ideas, practices, or technologies. Example: "The company's antiquated software system is hindering productivity and needs to be updated."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Poor planning and antiquated development assessment processes significantly drive up the price of housing and commercial projects," the head of the Property Council, Ken Morrison said.

The Guardian

Such antiquated policy in the treatment of our neighbours stands in disproportionate contrast to the "unintended" incursions of naval ships, armed to the teeth with every piece of radar and satellite equipment under the sun, who have suffered no cost or damage as a result of their action.

The Guardian - Opinion

"For the moment our priority is to help low-income families paying for antiquated heating systems because, as a nation, we did not invest enough during the last century," says Southampton's Payne.

The Guardian

She exclaims that for her kids "the page is interesting but antiquated".

The Guardian

Stuart Jones, writing in the Times before the 1986-87 season, made the case for the new development: "The welcome change in the antiquated system will clearly introduce added tension and excitement at the season's end".

The Guardian - Sport

The reforms to how the party elects its leaders do not start to kick in until 2015, so this will be decided by the antiquated three-part electoral college.

The Guardian - Opinion

Hattersley was always considered to be on the right of the Labour party: he believes in market forces and advocates public ownership only when it makes sense, not for antiquated doctrinal reasons.

The Guardian

For critics of loyalism the protest came across as a combination of antiquated jingoism and the kind of ugly, reactionary violence that dominated the early decades of the 20th century.

The Guardian - Opinion

Hogg suggests the ICT systems are antiquated.

The Guardian

That could shake up the antiquated radio world much as cable challenged network television in the 1980s.

The Economist

The antiquated voting system is creaking under the strain.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "antiquated" to describe systems, policies, or technologies that are not only old but also inefficient or ineffective in the modern context. It suggests a need for modernization or replacement.

Common error

Avoid using "antiquated" merely to indicate something is old. The term carries a connotation of being functionally obsolete and unsuitable for current needs. Use it when the age directly impacts usability or efficiency.

Linguistic Context

The word "antiquated" functions primarily as an adjective. It is used to describe nouns, indicating that they are old-fashioned, outdated, and often no longer suitable for modern use. Ludwig AI confirms its usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Formal & Business

30%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The adjective "antiquated" is widely used to describe something old-fashioned and outdated, often implying that it is no longer efficient or suitable for modern use. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts, primarily within News & Media and Formal & Business settings. When writing, it's best to reserve "antiquated" for instances where age directly impairs functionality. Alternatives include "outdated" or "obsolete". In summary, "antiquated" is a valuable term for expressing the need for modernization or replacement of systems and technologies.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

outdated

Refers to something that is no longer current or fashionable; less formal than "antiquated".

old-fashioned

Indicates something that is characteristic of a past era; emphasizes style or custom.

obsolete

Suggests something that is no longer produced or used; implies being completely out of date.

archaic

Implies something belonging to a much earlier period; often used for language or systems.

outmoded

Similar to outdated, but may suggest a more systematic replacement or upgrade.

antediluvian

Humorously or disparagingly old-fashioned; suggests something extremely ancient or outdated.

behind the times

Indicates a failure to keep up with current trends or knowledge.

past its prime

Suggests that something was once good but is now declining in quality or usefulness.

anachronistic

Something that is out of place in time; doesn't fit the current era.

defunct

No longer in existence or functioning; usually used for organizations or systems.

FAQs

How can I use "antiquated" in a sentence?

You can use "antiquated" to describe something that is old-fashioned and no longer suitable for modern use. For example, "The company's "antiquated equipment" slowed down production."

What are some alternatives to "antiquated"?

Alternatives to "antiquated" include "outdated", "old-fashioned", and "obsolete". The best choice depends on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use "antiquated"?

"Antiquated" is appropriate when describing something that is not only old but also out of date and no longer useful or efficient due to its age. It's stronger than simply saying something is old.

What is the difference between "antiquated" and "archaic"?

While both "antiquated" and "archaic" refer to something old, "antiquated" suggests that something is outdated and no longer practical or efficient. "Archaic" implies something belonging to an earlier time, often in language or customs.