like old

USAGE SUMMARY

It is correct and can be used in written English.
For example, "She looks like old photographs of her grandmother".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

"I like old names," said Ms. Mikkelsen.

The New York Times

"I like old gangs".

The Guardian - Music

Clarke must like Old Trafford.

The Guardian - Sport

If you like old clocks — and who doesn't like old clocks?

The New York Times - Arts

I like old actors, though.

Huffington Post

Like old friends.

The New York Times

Feels like old times.

The New York Times

I like old buildings.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

"We like old-fashioned businesses.

Forbes

Some feel like old-fashioned shakedowns.

The New York Times

Mine look like old-lady vinyl tablecloths.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing physical attributes, consider more descriptive alternatives such as "aged", "vintage", or "antique" for greater precision.

Common error

While "like old" is acceptable in informal settings, avoid using it in formal or professional writing. Opt for more precise and descriptive alternatives such as "traditional", "historical", or "established" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "like old" functions primarily as a prepositional phrase used for comparison. Ludwig AI’s examples show it is commonly used to draw parallels between current experiences and past ones, indicating familiarity or nostalgia. It modifies nouns or clauses, providing context and emotional resonance.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

87%

Science

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Academia

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "like old" is a common expression used to evoke a sense of nostalgia, familiarity, or comfort. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's grammatically correct and frequently found in news and media sources. While versatile, it's best suited for informal or neutral contexts, with more precise alternatives like "traditional" or "historical" preferred in formal writing. Use "like old" to add emotional depth and connection, but be mindful of your audience and the overall tone you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

fond of old

Focuses on affection or preference for things that are not new.

appreciate vintage

Emphasizes an appreciation for items of a particular era, usually high-quality.

enjoy classic

Highlights enjoyment derived from things recognized for their enduring quality.

have a taste for antique

Indicates a developed preference for antique items.

prefer traditional

Shows a preference for established customs or styles.

reminiscent of the past

Describes something that brings back memories of earlier times.

evokes nostalgia

Highlights the nostalgic feelings something inspires.

a fan of yesteryear

Expresses admiration for things from the past.

yearn for bygone days

Conveys a strong longing for a time that has passed.

miss the old days

Expresses a feeling of loss for a past period.

FAQs

How can I use "like old" in a sentence?

You can use "like old" to express a sense of familiarity, comfort, or nostalgia, such as "It felt "like old times"" or "They treated each other "like old friends"".

What's a more formal way to say "like old"?

In formal contexts, consider using phrases such as "traditional", "established", or "historical" instead of "like old". These alternatives provide a more professional and precise tone.

Is it grammatically correct to say "like old"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct, especially in informal contexts, to use "like old" to draw comparisons or express feelings associated with the past. However, always consider your audience and the overall tone of your writing.

When is it appropriate to use "like old" in writing?

It is appropriate to use "like old" in informal writing, personal narratives, or when trying to evoke a sense of nostalgia or familiarity. Avoid using it in formal academic or professional documents, opting instead for more precise language.