older lines

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "older lines" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to lines of text, dialogue, or verse that were created or written in the past, often in contrast to newer lines. Example: "In the script, the older lines reveal the character's development over time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

That poses a grave question, he said: Can work based on those older lines continue?

The Guardian

Some older stem cell lines will be eligible, but he refused to speculate which of the older lines would be approved.

The New York Times - Science

Wildcat promoters sold worthless securities to eager investors with dollar signs in their eyes, or built shoddy roads parallel to existing tracks, hoping to force the older lines to buy them out.

The New York Times

It plans to invest an additional $115 billion this year, despite running losses on existing operations that it attributes mainly to rising diesel fuel costs for older lines, as well as rising interest payments.

The New York Times

But now, with new high-speed passenger lines leaving more room on older lines to haul coal and other freight, the percentages could begin shifting away from energy-inefficient trucking, he said.

The New York Times

Now Mr. Askildsen journeys to Lego conventions organized by adult enthusiasts, while working with 44 Lego "ambassadors" from 27 countries, seeking advice about new toys and heading off public anger when older lines, like Lego's 9-volt train sets, are phased out.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

The old lines were disappearing.

The New York Times - Magazine

(The company is due to report fourth-quarter figures, presumably on the old lines, on July 18th).

The Economist

Old lines and the directives of her college teacher come back to her.

The New Yorker

The 29-year-old lines up in the 100m hurdles against Tiffany Porter.

BBC

Old lines of division and old identifications remain, which is only natural.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When referring to "older lines" in technical contexts such as coding or data analysis, ensure that the contrast with newer lines is clear to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "older lines" interchangeably with "old lines" when a specific comparison to newer lines is intended. "Old lines" generally refers to aged or outdated lines without implying a direct contrast with newer ones.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "older lines" functions as a descriptive noun phrase, typically modifying a noun to indicate lines that are relatively old in comparison to others. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically sound and commonly used in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Science

31%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "older lines" is a grammatically correct and commonly used descriptive noun phrase that functions to differentiate items based on their age relative to newer ones. As confirmed by Ludwig, it appears most frequently in news and media and scientific contexts, with a neutral register suitable for various writing styles. When using "older lines", ensure that the comparison to newer lines is clear to avoid ambiguity, and consider alternatives such as "previous lines" or "earlier lines" depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

previous lines

Focuses on temporal precedence without necessarily implying age.

earlier lines

Similar to previous lines, but emphasizes sequence.

established lines

Implies lines that have been in place for a while and are well-recognized.

long-standing lines

Emphasizes the duration of the lines' existence.

existing lines

Highlights the current presence rather than the age.

legacy lines

Suggests lines that are part of a historical or traditional set.

outdated lines

Emphasizes that the lines are no longer current or useful.

traditional lines

Suggests lines that adhere to established customs or practices.

historic lines

Highlights the historical significance of the lines.

senior lines

Implies seniority or a higher position in a hierarchy.

FAQs

What is the difference between "older lines" and "old lines"?

"Older lines" implies a comparison, suggesting these lines are relatively aged compared to newer ones. "Old lines", on the other hand, simply means the lines are aged or outdated without a direct comparison to something newer.

How can I use "older lines" in a sentence?

You might say, "The new software was designed to replace the "older lines" of code which were inefficient".

What are some alternatives to saying "older lines"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases such as "previous lines", "earlier lines", or "established lines".

In what situations is it appropriate to use the term "older lines"?

It's appropriate when discussing relative age, contrasting something established with something more recent. For example, comparing "older lines of code" with newer implementations in software development.