Have seen/known better days

usgb
phrase

Used to describe something that is old and in poor condition or no longer as useful or successful as it was in the past.

This chair has seen better days, we should probably replace it.
Visual representation of "have seen/known better days" - Used to describe something that is old and in poor condition or no longer as useful or successful as it was in the past

Often appears as...

  • this park had seen better days
  • my old car has seen better days

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "have seen/known better days"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Objects’ Condition

Use when observing that objects are damaged or show wear from use or age.

Illustration for Objects’ Condition
Her family heirloom has seen better days; it's quite tarnished now.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Time Reference

Implies comparison with a past state where the object was newer or functional.

Illustration for Time Reference
This old train station has known better days before the modern terminals were built.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Not Literal

It's a figurative phrase and shouldn’t be taken to mean seeing or knowing days literally.

Illustration for Not Literal
This sofa has seen better days; it's an expression, not that it actually 'sees'.
Visual representation of the word "Have seen/known better days"

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