Meaning and Usage
The character 旧 (jiù) primarily means 'old' or 'former.' It is used to describe objects that are aged or worn, such as 旧汽车 (old car) or 旧衣服 (old clothes). It also refers to people or relationships from the past, like 旧朋友 (old friends) or 旧同事 (former colleagues).
Common Collocations
- 旧汽车: old car, emphasizing age or wear
- 旧衣服: old clothes, often implying comfort or familiarity
- 旧朋友: old friends, referring to long-time acquaintances
- 旧习: old habits, often used in the phrase 旧习难改 (old habits are hard to change)
- 旧建筑: old building, often with historical or cultural value
Usage Notes
When using 旧, the focus is on something being from the past or having existed for a long time. It can carry a neutral or slightly negative connotation when referring to objects (implying wear or obsolescence), but it can be positive or nostalgic when referring to relationships or memories.
Unlike 新 (xīn, 'new'), 旧 emphasizes the previous state or condition. It is often paired with 新 to contrast old and new things.
Common Confusions
Do not confuse 旧 with 老 (lǎo), which also means 'old' but is more often used for people or to express respect or seniority. 旧 focuses more on the age or former status of things or relationships rather than age in years or respect.