Definition

1. Adjective:
   • No longer current, valid, or fashionable; obsolete: Describes something that has been replaced by newer versions, ideas, or standards and is therefore no longer considered useful, correct, or in style.

Usage

• The adjective "out-of-date" is used to describe objects, information, ideas, or styles.
• It typically functions as a predicate adjective (following a linking verb like , , ) or as an attributive adjective (placed before a noun).
• It often carries a negative connotation, suggesting something is inferior because it is not modern.

Examples

• Attributive use (before a noun):
  • We need to update these out-of-date safety protocols.
  • He was using an out-of-date version of the software.
• Predicate use (after a linking verb):
  • This map is completely out-of-date.
  • Her knowledge of the regulations became out-of-date after the new law passed.

Advanced Usage

• "to be out of date": This is the common phrasal form, often used interchangeably with the hyphenated adjective "out-of-date."
  • Your passport will be out of date next month.
• "to render something out of date": To cause something to become obsolete.
  • The new discovery rendered the old theory out of date.

Variants and Related Words

• Outdated (adj): A direct synonym, meaning no longer current or modern.
  • The factory uses outdated machinery.
• Obsolete (adj): No longer produced, used, or needed; often implies complete disuse.
  • Floppy disks are now obsolete technology.
• Old-fashioned (adj): No longer modern or current, but can sometimes have a neutral or positive connotation (e.g., ).
• Dated (adj): Clearly belonging to a past period and often seeming unfashionable.
  • The decor in the hotel lobby looks rather dated.

Synonyms

• Antiquated: Very old and no longer useful or fashionable, often in a way that is seen as silly.
• Archaic: Extremely old and no longer in ordinary use, often used for language or customs.
• Passé: No longer fashionable; outmoded (often used for styles or trends).

Antonyms

• Current: Belonging to the present time.
• Up-to-date: Incorporating the latest information, ideas, or styles.
• Modern: Of or relating to the present or recent times.
• Contemporary: Living or occurring at the same time; modern.

Related Phrases

• Past its sell-by date: An idiom, originally for food, now used figuratively to mean no longer effective or useful.
  • That marketing strategy is past its sell-by date.
• Behind the times: Not aware of or using the latest ideas or techniques; old-fashioned.
  • His views on management are behind the times.

Adjective

1. old; no longer valid or fashionable
   • obsolete words
   • an obsolete locomotive
   • outdated equipment
   • superannuated laws
   • out-of-date ideas