Translation guide
Describes something traditional, old-fashioned, or from an earlier era, often with a sense of nostalgia or respect. In Japanese, this can be expressed through adjectives, nouns, or descriptive phrases depending on the nuance.
To describe something as having a classic, traditional, or nostalgic style, often with a positive or neutral connotation.
Literally 'as in the old days,' this phrase is used to describe things that retain traditional methods or styles. It carries a positive, nostalgic nuance.
This shop makes tofu using old-school methods.
Means 'old-fashioned' or 'antique' in style. Often used for aesthetics, manners, or language. Can be neutral or slightly positive.
Her way of wearing kimono is old school and lovely.
Loanword from 'retro.' Used for things that evoke a nostalgic feel, especially from the Showa era or earlier. Common in fashion, design, and pop culture.
I like the old-school atmosphere of this coffee shop.
To describe something as old-fashioned in a negative sense, implying it is no longer relevant or efficient.
Means 'outdated' or 'behind the times.' Used for ideas, technology, or methods that are no longer modern.
His way of thinking is old school.
Literally 'smells old,' this adjective has a negative connotation, implying something is stale, outdated, or unfashionable.
To refer to 'old school' as a specific subculture or nostalgic aesthetic, often in music, gaming, or fashion.
Direct loanword used in contexts like hip-hop, skateboarding, or gaming to refer to the early styles or pioneers.
He likes old-school hip-hop.
Simply means 'old' or 'from the past.' Can be used in various contexts to mean 'old-school' when the nuance is clear.
Old-school games were hard.
That suit is a bit old school, isn't it?