is obsolete

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is obsolete" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it in any sentence where you want to express that something is no longer considered useful or valid. For example, "His old computer is obsolete and needs to be updated."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

SIS is obsolete.

University of California, Berkeley

This page is obsolete.

University of California, Berkeley

Art is obsolete now.

The New York Times - Magazine

But that view is obsolete.

The New York Times - Books

"Today the countryside is obsolete.

The New York Times - Magazine

Update: BOON is obsolete technology.

University of California, Berkeley

Some say it is obsolete.

The New York Times

The T.W.A. terminal is obsolete.

The New York Times

"Progressive Government is Obsolete". Wall Street Journal.

Harvard University

Even the word 'film' is obsolete.

The Guardian - Film

Enterprise, is obsolete — obsolete because accomplished.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "is obsolete", consider the context. Ensure the subject truly lacks current value or utility, and avoid using it for things that are simply old but still functional or appreciated for their historical value.

Common error

Avoid prematurely declaring something "is obsolete" simply because newer technologies or trends have emerged. Acknowledge that older methods or technologies might still hold niche value or serve specific purposes despite not being mainstream.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is obsolete" functions as a predicative adjective, describing a noun or concept as being no longer in use or relevant due to technological advancements, changing preferences, or other factors. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase follows standard grammar rules.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

40%

Science

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is obsolete" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe something that is no longer in use or relevant. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's appropriate in a wide range of contexts, particularly in news, academic, and scientific settings. When using "is obsolete", ensure that the subject genuinely lacks current value and consider alternative phrases like "is out of date" or "is no longer used" to add nuance. Be mindful not to prematurely declare something "is obsolete" simply because something newer exists. Finally, always double check if the context clearly convey that the subject truly lacks current value. This comprehensive analysis provides clear writing guidance for leveraging the power of "is obsolete" effectively.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is out of date

This alternative emphasizes the aspect of no longer being current or up-to-date.

is outdated

Similar to "is out of date", but can also imply that something is old-fashioned or less efficient than newer alternatives.

is no longer used

This phrase directly states the fact that something is not currently being utilized.

is a thing of the past

This suggests that something belongs to a previous era and is no longer relevant in the present.

has become obsolete

This alternative highlights the process of becoming obsolete over time.

is superseded

This indicates that something has been replaced by something newer or better.

is defunct

Implies that something is no longer functioning or in existence.

is antiquated

Emphasizes the old and often inefficient nature of something.

is archaic

Suggests that something is extremely old and no longer applicable.

is superannuated

Formally indicates that something is retired due to age or obsolescence.

FAQs

How can I use "is obsolete" in a sentence?

You can use "is obsolete" to describe something that is no longer in use because it has been replaced by something newer or more efficient. For example, "That technology "is obsolete" and no longer supported".

What are some alternatives to saying "is obsolete"?

Alternatives include "is outdated", "is no longer used", or "is a thing of the past", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say something "will be obsolete"?

Yes, it is correct. Saying something "will be obsolete" indicates that it is expected to become outdated or no longer useful in the future. For example, "That software "will be obsolete" in a few years".

What is the difference between "is obsolete" and "is outdated"?

"Is obsolete" implies that something is no longer in use, often replaced by something better. "Is outdated" simply means something is old and may not be the most current version, but it might still be functional. Something "is obsolete" because it "is outdated", but something can be outdated without necessarily being obsolete.