"Old" or "Vintage"? Saying Negative Things in a Positive Way

Have you ever thought about the difference between "bathroom" and "restroom"? In most situations, they mean the same thing, so why do we have both?

Well, "restroom" is what's called a "euphemism," which is a softer word used instead of one that may be too direct or unpleasant. Since baths are private, people often prefer to use "rest" to make conversations more comfortable.

Euphemisms are very common, even if you don't realize it. This article will introduce 19 terms you can use when the alternative isn't quite what you want to say.

Cheap >> Inexpensive

"Cheap" often has a negative nuance. In addition to a low price, it can also suggest that something is of low quality. A more positive alternative is "inexpensive."

• This hotel is inexpensive, but it offers good value with an excellent location.

Stingy >> Frugal

Did you know that "cheap" can also describe people? People who are cheap, or "stingy," do not like spending money. Instead, they try to keep as much of it as they can.

However, the adjective "frugal" is a positive way to describe someone who uses their money carefully and thoughtfully.

• Cooking his own meals at home is one way Ken keeps his lifestyle frugal.

The adverb form is "frugally."

• Carol decorated her apartment very frugally, but it still looks great.

Old (people) >> Elderly / Senior Citizen

When talking about people, "old" is generally considered to be rude. To refer to older people, you can say "elderly" or "senior citizen(s)." 

• This is a care home for the elderly.

• I saw him speaking with an elderly woman with a cane.

• My uncle is pretty active for a senior citizen.

Old (things) >> Vintage / Classic

What if you're talking about old objects instead of people? Try using "vintage" or "classic."

• The flea market has a lot of vintage items that are difficult to find anywhere else.

• Lots of classic cars were parked in the large garage.

In some cases, people use these alternatives sarcastically, so be sure to listen to the speaker's tone carefully.

• His closet was full of lots of … vintage clothes.

Used >> Pre-owned / Pre-loved

"Vintage" can be used to describe used items too. However, you can also say "pre-owned" and even "pre-loved," which is more casual. 

• I have a pre-owned car for sale, if you're interested.

• Visit our store to browse lots of pre-loved items looking for a new home!

Weird >> Eccentric / Unique

"Weird" is a very direct way to say "unusual." It doesn't always have a negative nuance, but it doesn't sound especially positive, either.

If you'd like to describe something that is not typical in a positive way, use "eccentric" or even "unique." "Eccentric" is best for people and the things related to them, such as fashion or tastes. "Unique" can be used more generally.

• My neighbor is pretty eccentric. His style and taste in music are very different from anyone else I know.

For even more words you can use to talk about something unusual, have a look at our article 'How Many Different Ways Can You Say "Weird"?'

Rich >> Comfortable / Well-off

"Rich" is not exactly a negative word; having a lot of money is generally a very positive thing! However, calling someone else or even yourself "rich" is very bold since people like to be more vague when discussing money.

Instead, try using the words "comfortable" or "well-off." "Comfortable" isn't exactly the same as "rich," but it does suggest that someone has no worries related to money.

• He never talks about how much he makes, but it's obvious from his house and clothes that he's well-off. 

Poor >> Low-income / Underprivileged

The opposite of "rich" is "poor," which is definitely not a positive term. It is often switched for "low-income" or "underprivileged."

• The increase of the minimum wage was great news for low-income workers around the country.

• Despite coming from an underprivileged family, he was able to become a big success.

Die >> Pass away

For most people, death is a very uncomfortable topic. Also, the word "die" is quite direct and harsh. It is common to instead use "pass away."

• My grandmother passed away when I was very young.

Small >> Cozy

When talking about spaces, some people think "small" sounds negative — after all, wouldn't you rather have a large room instead of a small one?

Using "cozy," however, makes a small space sound more comfortable and pleasant.

• Jenny's decoration skills turned a tiny room into a very cozy space to relax.

• The local cafe is a cozy place where people in the neighborhood like to gather and talk.

Damage >> Imperfections

When shopping, especially for used items, you will come across many products that have scratches, dents and other kinds of damage. Rather than use these negative words, however, you may see tags mentioning "imperfections."

• Because of the item's imperfections, we can offer you a nice discount.

Plain >> Simple / Understated

Even though "plain" is actually a neutral word, its nuance can include "boring" or "unexciting."

If something is not fancy or detailed, you can instead use "simple" or "understated" to give it a more positive feeling.

• The hotel rooms were simple and clean.

• Ashley has a very understated sense of style. She likes simple, comfortable clothes.

Wrap-up

One of the benefits of having a large vocabulary is that it gives you choices to express yourself; if there is something you'd like to say in a slightly different way, you have several options available to use!

If you found this list helpful, be sure to also read our article on body types, which introduces many polite ways to refer to people of different sizes and shapes: 16 Words for Describing Different Body Types.

And finally, be careful of words that sound negative but actually have a positive meaning!

• other ways to say
• politeness
• Vocabulary