old-fashioned
8 synonyms and 6 antonyms for old-fashioned, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Adjective — Belonging to or suited to an earlier time, and no longer in style or common use. It can be mildly critical, suggesting something is out of date, or warm, suggesting it has the charm and solidity of the past.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Synonyms by Meaning
1. adjective
Belonging to or suited to an earlier time, and no longer in style or common use. It can be mildly critical, suggesting something is out of date, or warm, suggesting it has the charm and solidity of the past.
“My phone is hopelessly old-fashioned but it still works.”
Opposites
2. adjective
Holding views or standards that belong to an earlier generation, especially about behaviour, morals or manners.
“Call me old-fashioned, but I think you should write a thank-you note.”
Opposites
How to use old-fashioned
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Neutral to gently critical. 'Call me old-fashioned, but…' is a set phrase used to soften a traditional opinion.
Etymology
A compound of old and fashioned, in the older sense of fashion meaning 'style or manner'.
Full origin of old-fashioned →Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between old-fashioned and vintage?
Old-fashioned describes something that is out of step with the present, and can be a criticism. Vintage is a compliment: it marks something as a good example of its period and usually desirable because of its age.
Is old-fashioned hyphenated?
Yes, in standard usage it is hyphenated in both positions: an old-fashioned kitchen, and the kitchen is old-fashioned. The cocktail is normally written as one hyphenated word too, though some bars capitalise it as Old Fashioned.
Is calling someone old-fashioned rude?
It depends entirely on tone. Said of opinions it usually implies they are behind the times, which can sting; said of a shop, a recipe or good manners it is generally affectionate.