Old, former or from an earlier period?
1 · An object is old
Vieux describes age; add a separate phrase for its condition.
Cette vieille chaise est encore en bon état.This old chair is still in good condition.
J’ai retrouvé mes vieux livres.I found my old books again.
2 · A role or relationship has ended
Before a role, ancien usually means former. The person can be young.
Mon ancien directeur a trente-cinq ans.My former director is thirty-five.
Mes anciennes collègues travaillent à Lyon.My former colleagues work in Lyon.
3 · A building or object comes from an earlier period
After these nouns, ancien describes age or historical character.
Ils restaurent une maison ancienne.They are restoring an old house.
Elle collectionne les meubles anciens.She collects antique furniture.
4 · An old friend can still be your friend
Un vieil ami often describes a friendship that has lasted. Un ancien ami usually describes a friendship that has ended.
Léa est une vieille amie : nous nous connaissons depuis l’école.Léa is an old friend: we have known each other since school.