‘旧友’ literally combines ‘旧’ (jiù), meaning ‘old,’ ‘former,’ or ‘long-standing,’ and ‘友’ (yǒu), meaning ‘friend.’ Together, it refers specifically to a friend from the past—someone you knew well earlier in life, such as from childhood, school, or a previous job—and with whom you may or may not currently stay in regular contact. Unlike the more neutral ‘朋友’ (péngyou), ‘旧友’ carries warmth and nostalgia, often implying shared history, enduring affection, or sentimental value.

This term is commonly used in reflective, literary, or emotionally expressive contexts—such as reunions, letters, memoirs, or conversations about life changes. It’s slightly formal or poetic; you’re unlikely to hear it in casual texting among peers, where ‘老朋友’ (lǎo péngyou) or simply ‘朋友’ is more common. ‘旧友’ can also subtly suggest distance in time or circumstance, making its use especially poignant when rekindling a connection after years.