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obsolescence

ob-suh-LESS-unss /ˌɒbsəˈlɛsns/

nounC1GMATGREIELTS

businesstechnicaleconomic

The process of becoming obsolete or outdated and no longer used.

Often used in the context of technology or products that are replaced by newer versions, rather than wearing out physically.

The story behind the word. From the Latin 'obsolescere,' meaning 'to wear out' or 'fall into disuse.' It specifically describes the stage of 'growing old' or 'fading out' rather than being completely gone.

Word relationships

outdatedness: A simpler, less formal term.
antiquity: 'Antiquity' refers to great age; 'obsolescence' refers to being out of use.

innovation: The introduction of something new.
currency: The state of being current or generally accepted.

Commonly confused with

obsolete: 'Obsolete' is the adjective (the state); 'obsolescence' is the noun (the process).

Word family

obsolete (adjective): No longer produced or used; out of date.

Collocations

planned obsolescence
technical obsolescence
fall into obsolescence

Example sentences

"The company was accused of planned obsolescence, designing phones that would slow down after two years." Discussing consumer electronics.
"The rise of AI has pushed many traditional coding techniques into obsolescence." Describing old skills.

Memory hook

Obsolescence sounds like 'Obsolete-sense'—it no longer makes sense to use it. Obsolescence = Out of use.

When not to use

Don't use it for things that rot or break; use it for things that are simply no longer 'in style' or 'useful' because of progress.

Fun facts

The lightbulb is often cited as the first product to have 'planned obsolescence' integrated into its business model.