older times

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "older times" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a period in the past, often evoking nostalgia or historical context. Example: "In older times, people relied more on face-to-face communication than on technology."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

34 human-written examples

In older times, it was called a hiring fair.

The Guardian - Opinion

I'm making films about older times, bringing them up from deep in the ground".

The Guardian - Film

But its size and echoes of lost grandeur are a reminder of older times.

The Guardian - Travel

In older times, it would not have held its ground," Mr. Amir said.

The New York Times

"In older times, beauty could be larger, and that facilitated singing.

The New York Times - Magazine

"Sir," declared that courtly Manhattanite, that survivor of still older times and manners, "Sir, for Hillary of Everest it will be at once a pleasure and a privilege".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

26 human-written examples

Just like old times.

The Guardian - Sport

For old times' sake".

The New Yorker

Feels like old times.

The New York Times

Chew over old times.

The New Yorker

It felt like old times.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "older times", consider the specific historical context you want to evoke. Be mindful of the connotations associated with the phrase, as it can suggest nostalgia, tradition, or a sense of distance from the present.

Common error

Be cautious about romanticizing "older times". While it's tempting to focus on perceived simplicity or virtues of the past, ensure your portrayal is accurate and acknowledges the challenges and inequalities that may have existed.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "older times" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as an adverbial modifier to indicate a temporal context. Ludwig confirms its usability in written English. It often sets the stage for comparing past conditions with present ones, or for explaining historical backgrounds.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

25%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

10%

Formal & Business

8%

Academia

7%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "older times" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed noun phrase used to denote a period in the past. As Ludwig AI indicates, it sets a temporal context and is effective for comparing the past and present. Its register is generally neutral, fitting for various sources such as News & Media and Science. When utilizing this phrase, it's important to consider the historical context and avoid romanticizing the past. While related phrases like "bygone days" or "earlier periods" may serve as alternatives, "older times" maintains its distinct and useful place in the English lexicon.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

earlier periods

A more neutral and descriptive way to refer to past times, suitable for academic contexts.

past eras

Emphasizes a broad historical span, shifting the focus from specific moments to a larger period.

olden days

A folksy and informal way of referring to the past, often used in storytelling.

bygone days

Evokes nostalgia and a sense of something lost or ended.

historical eras

Highlights the documented aspect of the past. Suggesting a structured periodization of time.

former ages

A more formal and literary way to refer to past times, often used in historical or philosophical contexts.

previous epochs

A scientific or historical term indicating a distinct period in time.

ancestral times

Emphasizes a connection to ancestors and familial history.

days of old

A poetic or archaic expression emphasizing tradition and history.

ancient times

Refers specifically to a very distant past, often before recorded history.

FAQs

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

You might say, "In "older times", people relied heavily on agriculture", or "The architecture reflects styles from "older times"".

What is a more formal synonym for "older times"?

For a more formal tone, consider using "earlier periods" or "former ages", depending on the specific context.

Is "older times" the same as "ancient times"?

While both refer to the past, ""older times"" generally refers to a more recent past, whereas "ancient times" signifies a very distant past, often before recorded history.

What's the difference between "older times" and "old times"?

"Older times" usually references a general period in the past. "Old times" often evokes nostalgia, referring to specific, personally remembered past events or experiences.