cũ kĩ
Definition
- Adjective:
- Old and worn-out: Describes an object that is not only old in age but also shows clear signs of deterioration, decay, or long use, often making it appear shabby or dilapidated.
- Outdated / obsolete: Refers to ideas, styles, methods, or technology that are old-fashioned and no longer considered modern, useful, or relevant.
Usage Examples
- Adjective:
- Căn nhà ấy trông rất cũ kĩ. (That house looks very old and worn-out.)
- Chiếc máy tính này đã cũ kĩ và chạy rất chậm. (This computer is obsolete and runs very slowly.)
- Những quan niệm cũ kĩ đó không còn phù hợp nữa. (Those outdated notions are no longer suitable.)
Advanced Usage
- The word "cũ kĩ" often carries a negative connotation, implying something is undesirable because of its age and condition, unlike the more neutral "cũ" (simply old).
- It can be used metaphorically to criticize systems, thoughts, or fashions that are stubbornly behind the times.
- Bộ máy hành chính cũ kĩ cần được cải cách. (The obsolete administrative machinery needs reform.)
Variants and Related Words
- Cũ (adj): Simply old, aged. Does not inherently carry the negative connotation of being worn-out or useless.
- Chiếc xe này cũ nhưng vẫn chạy tốt. (This car is old but still runs well.)
- Lỗi thời (adj): Outdated, out of fashion. More focused on being out of style than physically deteriorated.
- Kiểu tóc đó đã lỗi thời. (That hairstyle is out of fashion.)
Synonyms
- Dilapidated: In a state of disrepair or ruin.
- Obsolete: No longer produced or used; out of date.
- Outmoded: No longer fashionable or current.
- Decrepit: Worn out or ruined from age or neglect.
Related Idioms
- While "cũ kĩ" itself is not typically part of a fixed idiom, it is used in descriptive phrases that function idiomatically.
- Suy nghĩ cũ kĩ: Old-fashioned thinking.
- Đồ đạc cũ kĩ: Worn-out old furniture/items.