Translation guide
The English word "outmoded" describes something that is no longer in fashion, accepted, or useful, often because it has been replaced by something newer or better. In Japanese, this concept is expressed through various adjectives and phrases that convey being old-fashioned, obsolete, or behind the times.
Describing something that is not modern or fashionable, often with a slightly negative nuance.
A common and versatile term meaning 'outdated' or 'behind the times'. Can be used for ideas, technology, fashion, etc.
That way of thinking is outmoded.
His fashion sense is outmoded.
Literally 'smells old', this adjective has a stronger negative nuance, implying something is stale, outdated, or unfashionable.
That design is outmoded.
Means 'old-style' or 'old model'. Often used for machinery, systems, or methods that are outdated.
The machinery in this factory is outmoded.
The past tense of 廃れる (to go out of use/fashion). Implies something has fallen into disuse or become obsolete.
That custom has become outmoded.
Describing something that is no longer practical or effective because it has been superseded.
Also used for things that are obsolete or no longer useful.
This technology is outmoded.
A formal term meaning 'become obsolete' or 'outdated', often used in business or technical contexts.
That system is outmoded.
Can also imply obsolescence, especially for equipment or methods.
時代遅れ is a neutral term for being behind the times, while 古臭い has a more negative, subjective feel, like 'musty' or 'stale'. Use 古臭い when you want to emphasize distaste.
outmoded way of thinking (neutral)
stale, outmoded way of thinking (negative)
旧式の方法では効率が悪い。
Outmoded methods are inefficient.