Meaning
落伍 literally means 'to fall out of the ranks' and describes someone or something that has failed to keep up with current trends, technology, or standards. It carries a mildly negative connotation, suggesting that the person or thing is old-fashioned or no longer relevant in contemporary society.
Usage
Commonly used to describe people whose ideas or behaviors seem outdated, or technology and fashion that are no longer current. It's often used in casual conversation with a slightly critical tone. The word can function as both a verb (to fall behind) and an adjective (outdated, behind the times).
Examples
- 01你的手机太落伍了，该换一个新的了。, .Your phone is too outdated; you should get a new one.
- 02如果不学习新知识，我们很快就会落伍。, .If we don't learn new knowledge, we'll quickly fall behind.
Characters
Common collocations
- 思想落伍outdated thinking
- 观念落伍outdated concepts
- 技术落伍outdated technology
Antonyms
Origin
Originally a military term meaning to fall out of formation or ranks (伍), which extended metaphorically to mean falling behind in any context, especially in terms of progress or trends.