Translation guide
Describes something old-fashioned, outdated, or no longer in common use. Japanese has several words that convey this, ranging from neutral descriptions of age to negative judgments of being behind the times.
Describing something that is no longer modern or in style, often with a slightly negative nuance.
The most common and versatile word for 'outdated' or 'behind the times'. Can be used for technology, ideas, fashion, etc.
そのコンピューターは時代遅れだ。
That computer is antiquated.
彼の考え方は時代遅れだ。
His way of thinking is antiquated.
Literally 'smells old', this is a more colloquial and slightly derogatory term for something that feels old-fashioned or stale.
このデザインは古臭いね。
This design is antiquated, isn't it?
Means 'old-style' or 'old model'. Often used for machinery, systems, or methods that are outdated.
この工場ではまだ旧式の機械を使っている。
This factory still uses antiquated machinery.
Means 'stale' or 'hackneyed', often used for ideas, expressions, or art that lack originality due to being overused.
その比喩は陳腐だ。
That metaphor is antiquated.
Describing something that belongs to a much earlier period, without necessarily a negative judgment.
Means 'old-fashioned' in a charming or classical way. Can be positive, implying elegance or tradition.
彼女は古風な着物を着ている。
She is wearing an antiquated kimono.
Literally 'old-style', similar to 古風 but more neutral and descriptive of past customs or manners.
Describing something that has been completely replaced and is no longer in practical use.
The past tense of 廃れる, meaning 'to become obsolete' or 'to go out of use'. Commonly used for customs, technologies, or words.
その習慣はもう廃れた。
That custom has become antiquated.
A straightforward phrase meaning 'has come to not be used'. Less formal and very clear.
この言葉は今では使われなくなった。
This word is antiquated now.
時代遅れ is a neutral to negative term for being behind the times, while 古臭い is more colloquial and carries a stronger sense of being stale or musty. Use 古臭い when you want to emphasize a negative, subjective feeling.
Do not directly translate 'antiquated' as アンティーク (antique). アンティーク usually refers to valuable old objects, not outdated concepts or technology.
この町には昔風の建物が残っている。
Antiquated buildings remain in this town.
An adjective meaning 'antiquated-looking' or 'having an old feel'. Often used for objects or places with a sense of age.
古めかしい家具が部屋に置いてあった。
Antiquated furniture was placed in the room.