built-in obsolescence

USAGE SUMMARY

"built-in obsolescence" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when discussing products designed to have a limited lifespan or become outdated. For example, "Many electronics are criticized for their built-in obsolescence, leading to increased waste." Alternative expressions include "planned obsolescence" and "designed obsolescence."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Reality has a built-in obsolescence.

The Guardian

Alas, this apparently gleaming economy had built-in obsolescence.

The Economist

Even good, well-made objects -- without built-in obsolescence -- die.

The New York Times

We were taught about built-in obsolescence at school.

The Guardian

Collective consumption is also disrupting established business models based on built-in obsolescence.

The Economist

Barcelona have succumbed to the built-in obsolescence which afflicts even the greatest teams.

Independent

In fact, the toothbrush actively discourages sentimental attachment: it's a prime example of built-in obsolescence.

The New York Times

In techie jargon - that argot of built-in obsolescence - they cannot compute.

The Guardian - Books

There is perhaps a degree of built-in obsolescence about Mourinho's successes.

The Guardian - Sport

The built-in obsolescence of electrical goods is as obscene as that of so called "fashion".

The Guardian - Opinion

They also, in their built-in obsolescence, remind us of our mortality… They do.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing the environmental impact of consumerism, use "built-in obsolescence" to highlight how product design contributes to waste and the cycle of replacement.

Common error

Avoid attributing every product failure to "built-in obsolescence". Ensure that the failure is due to a design choice intended to shorten the product's lifespan, rather than accidental damage or misuse.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "built-in obsolescence" functions as a noun phrase, often used as a subject or object in a sentence. It describes a characteristic or feature of a product or system. Ludwig AI examples illustrate its use in discussing economic models, consumerism, and technological design.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

88%

Academia

6%

Science

3%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

"Built-in obsolescence" is a frequently used phrase, especially in news and media, to describe the practice of designing products with a limited lifespan to encourage repeat purchases. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage. While often used in a critical context, it's important to ensure the term is applied accurately, differentiating it from accidental damage or simple wear and tear. Alternatives like "planned obsolescence" and "designed obsolescence" offer similar meanings. The phrase highlights a key aspect of consumer culture and its impact on the environment.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

planned obsolescence

This term is the closest synonym, referring specifically to the deliberate design of products with a limited lifespan to stimulate repeat purchases.

designed obsolescence

Similar to planned obsolescence, but emphasizes the design aspect of making a product obsolete.

artificial obsolescence

Highlights the artificial or manufactured nature of the obsolescence, suggesting it's not a natural occurrence.

premature obsolescence

Focuses on the idea that the product becomes outdated or unusable sooner than expected.

limited lifespan

A more general term referring to the restricted duration of a product's usability.

finite product life

Similar to limited lifespan, emphasizing the defined end to a product's utility.

programmed aging

Implies a deliberate and systematic process of decline in a product's functionality.

engineered decline

Suggests a calculated effort to reduce the performance or desirability of a product over time.

self-destructing design

A more dramatic and metaphorical way to describe products designed to fail or become obsolete.

ephemeral technology

Focuses on the fleeting nature of technology and its rapid replacement by newer versions.

FAQs

What does "built-in obsolescence" mean?

"Built-in obsolescence" refers to a strategy of designing products with a limited useful life, so they become obsolete or non-functional after a certain period, requiring consumers to purchase replacements.

What is another term for "built-in obsolescence"?

A common alternative for "built-in obsolescence" is "planned obsolescence", which emphasizes the intentional planning behind the limited lifespan of a product.

Is "built-in obsolescence" ethical?

The ethics of "built-in obsolescence" are widely debated. Critics argue it promotes overconsumption and waste, while proponents suggest it drives innovation and lowers initial product costs.

How can consumers avoid "built-in obsolescence"?

Consumers can mitigate the effects of "built-in obsolescence" by choosing durable, repairable products, supporting companies with sustainable practices, and opting for product maintenance and repair over replacement.