old-fashioned
She prefers old-fashioned manners over modern casualness.
She likes traditional, polite behavior more than today's relaxed approach.
Traditional, conventional, or outdated in style or approach
The restaurant has an old-fashioned charm with its vintage decor.
The restaurant feels nostalgic and classic because of its old-style decorations.
He uses old-fashioned methods to fix his car.
He repairs his car using traditional, possibly outdated techniques.
Often implies a positive connotation of nostalgia or authenticity, but can also suggest being out of date.
Collocations
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Positive vs. Negative Connotation
The phrase can be positive (e.g., 'old-fashioned charm') or negative (e.g., 'old-fashioned thinking'). Context determines the tone.
Gold Rule
Context Matters
Always consider whether the phrase is being used to praise tradition or criticize outdatedness.
Word Origin
From 'old' (dating back in time) + 'fashioned' (made or styled in a particular way). The phrase became common in the 19th century to describe things that were no longer current but retained value or charm.
Usage Notes
Can be used positively to describe something charmingly traditional or negatively to describe something as outdated or ineffective.