pre-owned
pree-OHND
/ˌpriːˈəʊnd/
Previously owned by someone else; second-hand.
Often used as a polite, upscale, or marketing-friendly euphemism for 'used' or 'second-hand' to make items sound more appealing.
The story behind the word. The term 'pre-owned' was popularized by the automotive industry in the late 20th century. Car manufacturers wanted to sell used cars at a premium, so they created 'certified pre-owned' programs to distance their inventory from the negative stereotypes of cheap, unreliable 'used car lots.'
Word relationships
- second-hand: Second-hand is the traditional, direct term, while pre-owned is a modern marketing term designed to sound cleaner and more premium.
- brand-new: Brand-new items have never had a previous owner and are straight from the manufacturer.
Commonly confused with
- used: Used can imply wear and tear or degradation, whereas pre-owned focuses simply on the ownership history, often implying the item is still in excellent condition.
Word family
- own (verb): To possess or have as property.
- ownership (noun): The state or fact of exclusive rights and possession.
Collocations
- certified pre-owned
- pre-owned vehicle
- pre-owned goods
- pre-owned luxury
Example sentences
- "The dealership offered a wide selection of certified pre-owned vehicles that came with a full warranty." A car dealership advertisement.
- "Buying pre-owned textbooks is an excellent way for college students to save hundreds of dollars each semester." An online marketplace listing.
Memory hook
It was owned 'PRE-viously' (before) by someone else, but it is ready for you now. Loved before, loved again.
When not to use
Do not use when describing items that are brand new, or items that have been heavily damaged and are only good for scrap.
Fun facts
- The luxury watch industry relies heavily on the 'pre-owned' label, as high-end watches like Rolex often appreciate in value after their initial purchase.
Related words
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