obsolete buildings

USAGE SUMMARY

The term "obsolete buildings" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to buildings which are no longer in use, either because they are no longer functional or no longer up to modern standards. For example, "The abandoned factory was one of the many obsolete buildings in the city."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

"The bigger issue," Ms. Hackett said, "is how to deal with obsolete buildings in the city".

The New York Times

Many obsolete buildings in Midtown have been converted to rental housing in recent years, and the rental market has been strong.

The New York Times

Sichuan officials began investigating the issue last Sunday, Xinhua reported, and have blamed design defects and obsolete buildings for many of the collapses.

The New York Times

Cities that urgently need to replace obsolete buildings might paradoxically base much of their financing upon a tax that encourages owners to hold on to deteriorated structures and penalizes owners of new ones.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In 1968 Roger and his older brother Donald joined their father William in establishing Reckson Associates whose developments were bold and groundbreaking, changing the way commercial real estate was built and used on Long Island and throughout the region through innovations in upgrading industrial properties, reviving obsolete buildings, and setting new standards for office developments.

The New York Times

The mixed-use character of these neighborhoods would be assured by including residential construction matched to the numbers of new workplaces, a pattern that had already begun downtown, where substantial office space had been eliminated by conversion of "obsolete" buildings to residential use.

The New York Times - Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

Much of the $45 million development was financed with historic preservation tax credits, along with brownfield tax credits for re-using an obsolete building, Mr. Poris said.

The New York Times

It was constructed at a time when cobblestone masonry was a popular choice for state park structures, but also after masonry was considered an obsolete building material.

Wikipedia

That translates to 2.3 million square feet, much of it in obsolete industrial buildings, he said, adding that such buildings can be converted to suit the needs of technology companies.

The New York Times

We've run into a vicious circle: obsolete permanent buildings lead to standalone devices; poor experience with standalone devices leads back to a new generation of integrated permanent buildings that would end up obsolete again.

TechCrunch

In addition to the Vista project, the Port Authority said on April 29 that it would begin demolishing six obsolete cargo buildings and five underutilized hangars on the airport to expand its cargo and passenger businesses.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing urban development or renovation projects, use "obsolete buildings" to specifically highlight structures that are no longer serving their original purpose and are hindering progress.

Common error

While "obsolete buildings" is widely understood, avoid overusing it in highly formal documents like legal contracts or academic papers. Consider more precise terms such as "functionally redundant structures" or "properties failing to meet current building standards" for enhanced clarity and professionalism.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "obsolete buildings" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where the adjective "obsolete" modifies the noun "buildings". It describes buildings that are no longer useful or functional for their original purpose. Ludwig confirms its proper usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Encyclopedias

25%

Science

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "obsolete buildings" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase for describing structures that are no longer functional or up to modern standards. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its widespread usage across diverse contexts, including news, encyclopedias, and scientific publications. While versatile, consider more precise alternatives in highly formal settings. The phrase effectively communicates issues related to urban decay, redevelopment, and infrastructure management.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

outdated structures

Emphasizes the structures are no longer current or up-to-date.

disused buildings

Highlights the buildings are not currently in use.

abandoned properties

Focuses on the aspect of being deserted or unclaimed.

derelict structures

Stresses the neglected and rundown condition of the buildings.

redundant buildings

Indicates the buildings are no longer needed or necessary.

antiquated constructions

Emphasizes that constructions are old-fashioned and no longer practical.

outmoded facilities

Highlights that the facilities are no longer in line with current practices or needs.

superannuated buildings

Indicates the buildings have been retired due to age or obsolescence.

aging infrastructures

Suggests that infrastructures are deteriorating because of old age.

dilapidated properties

Focuses on the deteriorated and ruinous condition of the properties.

FAQs

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

You can use "obsolete buildings" to describe structures that are no longer functional or up to modern standards. For example, "The city plans to redevelop the area with several "abandoned properties"".

What are some alternatives to "obsolete buildings"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "outdated structures", "disused buildings", or "derelict structures".

Is it better to say "old buildings" or "obsolete buildings"?

"Old buildings" simply indicates age, while "obsolete buildings" implies the structures are no longer useful or functional. The choice depends on whether you want to emphasize age or lack of utility. For example, a very "ancient building" might be in perfect condition.

What are the implications of having many "obsolete buildings" in a city?

A high number of "obsolete buildings" can indicate urban decay, economic stagnation, and potential safety hazards. Redeveloping these "abandoned properties" can revitalize communities.