démodé
Démodé means old-fashioned or outdated — literally 'out of fashion' (dé- + mode). A typewriter is démodé; so, according to some, is Édith Piaf. When the French want the same idea with affection instead of dismissal, they say rétro — the polite (and pricier) side of out-of-date.
Where you'll hear it
Emilie
Salut, qui est ton musicien préféré ?
Hi, who's your favorite musician?
Jacques
Salut Émilie, ma chanteuse préférée est sans aucun doute Édith Piaf. C’est toujours un plaisir que d'écouter ses chansons émouvantes.
Hi Emilie, my favorite singer is undoubtedly Édith Piaf. It's always a pleasure to listen to her moving songs.
Emilie
Édith Piaf ? Mais c'est un peu démodé, non ?
Édith Piaf? But that's a bit outdated, isn't it?
Jacques
Peut-être pour toi, mais pour moi, c'est la reine de la chanson française. Mais je suis sûr que tu préfères quelque chose de plus moderne comme... disons... DJ Snake ?
Maybe for you, but for me, she's the queen of French song. But I'm sure you prefer something more modern like... let's say... DJ Snake?
How it shows up
Ce style est complètement démodé.
This style is completely out of fashion.
Mon téléphone est démodé mais il marche.
My phone is outdated but it works.
Les vinyles ? Démodés pour certains, rétro pour moi.
Vinyl records? Outdated for some, retro for me.
Related expressions
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