obsolescence
/ˌɒb.səˈles.əns/ IELTSAcademic
noun
Obsolescence is the state of becoming old, outdated, or no longer useful. It can also mean the process of something losing value because newer things replace it.
- The phone's obsolescence came quickly.
- New software can cause fast obsolescence.
- Regular updates reduce product obsolescence.
Adinary Nuance
Obsolescence is more formal and technical than words like "old" or "outdated." Writers use it when something becomes less useful because time, fashion, or technology has moved on. It is often used in business, engineering, and academic writing. It focuses on the process or state of becoming obsolete, not just the final result.
In other languages
- Vietnamese
- sự lỗi thời
- Spanish
- obsolescencia
- Chinese
- 过时
- Japanese
- 陳腐化
- Korean
- 진부화
Etymology
Obsolescence comes from Latin obsolescere, meaning “to grow old” or “to wear out.” It entered English in the 17th century, and later became common in business and technology.
Common phrases
planned obsolescencetechnological obsolescencerapid obsolescenceproduct obsolescence
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- Is obsolescence formal or informal?
- It is formal. People usually use it in business, academic, or technical writing.
- What is the difference between obsolescence and obsolete?
- Obsolete is an adjective for something old or no longer useful. Obsolescence is the noun for that process or state.
- Is obsolescence common in IELTS writing?
- Yes. It is useful in Task 2 when discussing technology, consumerism, or waste.
- Can I say 'the obsolescence of phones'?
- Yes. That phrase is natural when talking about how phones become outdated.