きゅう

ex-

JLPT N3

Character Breakdown

Meaning and Usage

The character (jiù) primarily means 'old' or 'former.' It is used to describe objects that are aged or worn, such as (old car) or 衣服 (old clothes). It also refers to people or relationships from the past, like 朋友 (old friends) or 同事 (former colleagues).

Common Collocations

  • : old car, emphasizing age or wear
  • 衣服: old clothes, often implying comfort or familiarity
  • 朋友: old friends, referring to long-time acquaintances
  • : old habits, often used in the phrase (old habits are hard to change)
  • 建筑: old building, often with historical or cultural value

Usage Notes

When using , 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 (xīn, 'new'), emphasizes the previous state or condition. It is often paired with to contrast old and new things.

Common Confusions

Do not confuse with (lǎo), which also means 'old' but is more often used for people or to express respect or seniority. focuses more on the age or former status of things or relationships rather than age in years or respect.

Example Sentences

This is an old car; it has been used for ten years.

I like wearing old clothes because they are comfortable.

Meeting old friends is always joyful.

This old building has been converted into a museum.

Old habits are hard to change; we need to work hard to learn new methods.

He is my former colleague; we used to work together.