Meanings of 过时
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Podcast: 过时
Podcast: 过时
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AI Study Notes for 过时
过时 (outdated) vs 过期 (expired) — use 过时 for concepts that are old-fashioned, while 过期 refers specifically to items that have surpassed their usable date.
Learners often confuse 过时 with 过期 (guò qī), which means expired. While both can relate to time, 过时 focuses on being out of date in terms of relevance rather than simply having passed a deadline. This term is typically used in informal contexts but is also suitable for discussions about trends in formal settings.
Although not part of the HSK vocabulary list, understanding 过时 can help learners grasp concepts related to time and change. It connects well with words like 新 (xīn, new) and 现代 (xiàn dài, modern), which are commonly taught in beginner levels.
Learners may mistakenly use 过时 to imply something that is simply old, rather than outdated. For example, saying '这台电脑很过时' (This computer is very outdated) is correct, but saying '这台电脑很旧' (This computer is very old) does not necessarily imply it is out of fashion.
Pronunciation of 过时
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Component Characters
How to say old-fashioned in Chinese
“old-fashioned” in Chinese is过时
The term 过时 (guò shí) refers to something that is outdated or old-fashioned, often in the context of fashion, technology, or ideas. It implies that the item or concept is no longer relevant or has been replaced by something more modern. This word is commonly used in discussions about trends or societal changes.
When to use 过时
Learners often confuse 过时 with 过期 (guò qī), which means expired. While both can relate to time, 过时 focuses on being out of date in terms of relevance rather than simply having passed a deadline. This term is typically used in informal contexts but is also suitable for discussions about trends in formal settings.
过时 or something close to it
过时 (outdated) vs 过期 (expired) — use 过时 for concepts that are old-fashioned, while 过期 refers specifically to items that have surpassed their usable date.
What learners get wrong
Learners may mistakenly use 过时 to imply something that is simply old, rather than outdated. For example, saying '这台电脑很过时' (This computer is very outdated) is correct, but saying '这台电脑很旧' (This computer is very old) does not necessarily imply it is out of fashion.
Write 过时
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Usage Notes for 过时
Learners sometimes use 过时 in contexts where it does not fit. Ensure it is used to describe things that are outdated or no longer in fashion.
这款手机已经过时了。
This model of the phone is already out of date.
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Type the missing word. Pinyin works; then pick the character.
这款手机已经____了。
This model of the phone is already out of date.
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Cultural Notes for 过时
In China, fashion trends can change rapidly, making some styles become '过时' very quickly. Understanding what is considered fashionable can be crucial in social and business contexts.
There's a Chinese saying: '不怕慢，就怕站.' This means it's better to move slowly than to stand still, emphasizing the importance of keeping up with the times to avoid becoming '过时'.
In Western cultures, being considered 'out of date' can sometimes be embraced as 'vintage' or 'retro', whereas in Chinese culture, it is often viewed as a disadvantage or a failure to adapt.
Frequently Asked Questions about 过时
Yes, 过时 is commonly used in modern Chinese to describe fashion, technology, or ideas that are no longer current. It's relevant in discussions about trends, styles, or even business practices that have become obsolete.
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