(こふう)

こふう
na-adjective, noun
old-fashioned, classic
1. old-fashioned, classic, traditional in style
Having the style, manners, or appearance of an earlier era. Can be used positively (charming, classic) or neutrally (dated, old-style), but rarely carries a strongly negative connotation.
古風(こふう)名前(なまえ)ですね。
That's an old-fashioned name, isn't it.
(かれ)古風(こふう)(かんが)(かた)をする(ひと)だ。
He is a person with old-fashioned ways of thinking.
古風(こふう)町並(まちな)みが(のこ)るこの地域(ちいき)観光客(かんこうきゃく)人気(にんき)がある。
This area, where old-fashioned townscapes remain, is popular with tourists.

古風(こふう) describes something that has the style, manners, or appearance of an earlier era. It is a na-adjective that can also function as a noun.

WORD FORMATION:
() (old) + (ふう) (style, manner).

COMMON COLLOCATIONS:

  • 古風(こふう)名前(なまえ): old-fashioned name
  • 古風(こふう)建物(たてもの): classic-style building
  • 古風(こふう)雰囲気(ふんいき): classic atmosphere
  • 古風(こふう)(かんが)(かた): old-fashioned way of thinking

NUANCE:
Often carries a positive or appreciative tone — suggesting charm, elegance, or traditional propriety rather than being outdated. When describing people, it implies admirable traditional values.

SIMILAR WORDS:

  • (むかし)ながら: traditional, as of old (more neutral)
  • 時代遅(じだいおく)れ: outdated, behind the times (negative)
  • レトロ: retro (positive, often for design/fashion)
  • 伝統的(でんとうてき): traditional (more formal, less personal)