superannuated
/,sju:pə'rænjueit/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Adjective:
- Too old for use or work; obsolete: Describes something that is no longer effective, efficient, or in use because it is outdated or has aged beyond its useful life.
- Retired or discharged because of age or infirmity: Refers to a person who has been pensioned off or has left a job due to being too old to work effectively.
Usage
The word "superannuated" is a formal adjective, often used in official, historical, or critical contexts to describe objects, systems, ideas, or people that are antiquated. It carries a negative connotation of being past its prime and no longer fit for its original purpose.
Examples
- Describing objects or ideas:
- The company replaced its superannuated computer systems with modern technology.
- Many consider that economic theory to be superannuated and irrelevant to the current market.
- Describing people:
- The fund provides for superannuated employees who have served the company for decades.
- He felt superannuated in his role, as new management favored younger talent.
Advanced Usage
- Institutional Context: Often used in formal documents regarding pensions or retirement.
- The superannuated professor was honored at a ceremony marking the end of his tenure.
- Figurative Use: Can describe abstract concepts like traditions or methods.
- The superannuated customs of the past were finally abandoned by the community.
Variants and Related Words
- Superannuation (noun): A regular payment made into a fund by an employee towards a future pension; the state of being superannuated.
- He receives a monthly income from his superannuation.
- Superannuate (verb, rare): To retire or become obsolete; to pension off.
- The old policy was superannuated by the new legislation.
Synonyms
- Obsolete: No longer produced or used; out of date.
- Outdated: Out of date; obsolete.
- Antiquated: Old-fashioned or outdated.
- Archaic: Very old or old-fashioned.
- Decrepit: Worn out or ruined because of age or neglect.
Antonyms
- Modern: Relating to the present or recent times.
- Current: Belonging to the present time.
- Up-to-date: Incorporating the latest developments or styles.
- Functional: In working order; fit for use.
Related Phrases and Idioms
- To be put out to pasture: An informal idiom meaning to be retired, often because one is considered too old. This is conceptually similar to being superannuated.
- After forty years at the firm, he was finally put out to pasture.
Adjective
- old; no longer valid or fashionable
- obsolete words
- an obsolete locomotive
- outdated equipment
- superannuated laws
- out-of-date ideas
- too old to be useful
- He left the house...for the support of twelve superannuated wool carders- Anthony Trollope