antique

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "antique" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an object that is old and often valuable due to its age and rarity, typically over 100 years old. Example: "She inherited a beautiful antique from her grandmother that dates back to the 19th century."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Travel

Arts

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Comprising three once grand houses, and furnished with antique mirrors, desks, cabinets, clocks, statues, lamps and paintings, it's like an underfunded museum with comfortable beds.

The Guardian - Travel

A friend referred me to an antique store.

The Guardian

In addition to cash, he had an antique Edison phonograph with dozens of recording drums, which he left to the Dummerston Historical Society, Rowell said.

The Guardian

Everything here is about details: antique typewriters, gramophones, radios, television sets, model cars and even a shark gnawing on a disco ball.

The Guardian - Travel

As the concert ended, the Queen removed the cape that had been keeping her warm to reveal a gold cocktail dress, trimmed with antique gold lace and adorned with Swarovsky crystals.

The Guardian - Music

As electoral choices go, it's not far off choosing to be ruled by a dry, whispering voice taunting you from an antique mirror.

The Guardian - Opinion

Chandler's programme is a reigning RTS award-winner, but such trifles are likely to be far less important than whether candidates get on with Richard Desmond – enthusiasm for his lottery and for antique rock music is advised, as well as using the word "digi" whenever possible, and jokes at the expense of Martin Sorrell and Alan Sugar should go down well.

The Guardian

But there were frescoes on the walls, antique candelabra, and the Rialto market with its fresh produce was a stroll away.

The Guardian - Travel

Beyond its walls are the shingle beach, a breezy promenade and Bexhill town, a treasure trove of vintage and antique shops, including the recently opened Eras of Style (erasofstyle.com) on Terminus Road.

The Guardian - Travel

It used to be the old village school and she and her parents were once pupils here – there's still a line of antique coat-hooks in the lobby.

The Guardian - Travel

You're in one of the bastions of Little England - it's full of antique shops and coffee shops - and there were people cheering out of their windows and bringing out tea.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing items as "antique", ensure they meet the general criteria of being at least 100 years old. This adds credibility to your description.

Common error

Avoid using "antique" to describe items that are merely old or vintage. "Antique" specifically refers to items that are over a century old, while vintage can refer to items from a more recent era.

Linguistic Context

The word "antique" primarily functions as an adjective, modifying nouns to describe items of significant age and value. It can also function as a noun, referring to such an item itself, or as a verb, meaning to search for or artificially age items, as demonstrated by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Travel

25%

Arts

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

9%

Science

7%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "antique" is commonly used as an adjective or noun to describe items that are old, valuable, and at least a century old. As Ludwig highlights, it is grammatically correct and versatile, appearing frequently in news, travel writing, and discussions about the arts. While alternatives like "vintage" or "classic" exist, "antique" specifically implies a greater age and historical significance. To ensure accuracy, verify that items described as "antique" truly meet the age requirement. Although the word can also be used as a verb, this form is substantially less common.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Vintage

Refers to items of a recognizable period, often associated with fashion or design, and not necessarily as old as "antique".

Retro

Imitates or is reminiscent of a style or fashion from the recent past, usually the mid-20th century.

Classic

Highlights enduring quality and style, often used for items that are well-regarded and timeless.

Period piece

Denotes an item or work that accurately reflects a specific historical period, emphasizing authenticity.

Old-fashioned

Describes something outdated or out of style, which can carry a negative connotation.

Heirloom

An item of special value handed down through generations, emphasizing sentimental significance.

Collectable

Focuses on the item's desirability among collectors, suggesting potential investment value.

Ancient

Refers to items from a very distant past, often associated with ancient civilizations.

Historical

Highlights the item's connection to history, often used in educational or documentary contexts.

Antiquated

Implies being outdated or obsolete, often used critically to describe something that needs updating.

FAQs

How can I use "antique" in a sentence?

You can use "antique" to describe old and valuable items, such as "She inherited an antique clock from her grandmother" or "The shop specializes in antique furniture".

What is a good alternative to the word "antique"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "vintage", "classic", or "retro".

What's the difference between "antique" and "vintage"?

"Antique" typically refers to items that are at least 100 years old, while "vintage" refers to items from a past era, usually between 20 and 99 years old. Therefore not all vintage items are antiques.

When is it appropriate to use the term "antique"?

Use "antique" when referring to items that are genuinely old and valuable due to their age, craftsmanship, or historical significance. Ensure that the item is at least a century old.