as consistent as clockwork

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as consistent as clockwork" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that happens reliably and predictably, often in a routine manner. Example: "The train service in this city is as consistent as clockwork, arriving at the station every ten minutes."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

By contrast, the companies that focus on one brand, like Hermès and Bulgari, "are as consistent as clockwork," he said.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Nothing as consistent as this.

The New York Times

Mo's been as consistent as anyone".

The New York Times - Sports

Remain as consistent as possible.

WikiHow

Be as consistent as possible.

WikiHow

Keep combat as consistent as possible.

WikiHow

Remember to stay as consistent as possible.

WikiHow

(Try to be as consistent as possible).

WikiHow

Art is a mirror which leads the way as regularly as clockwork – some of the time".

The Guardian - Books

The win was as predictable as clockwork, as March as St. Patrick's Day, or Izzo's histrionics on the sideline.

The New York Times - Sports

The genes turn on and off throughout the blood infection cycle in a smooth cascade as regular as clockwork.

The New York Times - Science

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "as consistent as clockwork" to describe processes or behaviors that are exceptionally regular and predictable. This phrase is particularly effective when you want to emphasize the unwavering nature of the consistency.

Common error

Avoid using mechanical metaphors like "as consistent as clockwork" too frequently in your writing. While effective, overuse can make your writing sound repetitive and uninspired. Try varying your descriptions with more creative and context-specific comparisons.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as consistent as clockwork" functions as an adverbial phrase of comparison. It modifies a verb or clause by providing a comparison to the regularity and precision of clockwork, emphasizing the predictable and unwavering nature of an action or process. Ludwig provides examples illustrating this usage.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Wiki

33%

Science

11%

Less common in

Formal & Business

11%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "as consistent as clockwork" is used to describe something that happens with unwavering regularity and predictability. Ludwig AI indicates the phrase is grammatically correct and usable. It is most commonly found in News & Media and Wiki sources. The phrase's purpose is to emphasize reliability and its register is neutral. While perhaps not the most frequent expression, it effectively communicates dependable consistency. Related phrases include "regular as clockwork" and "predictable like clockwork", each providing a slightly different nuance while retaining the core meaning. Ludwig's examples support this, highlighting the consistent application of the phrase across various contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

predictable like clockwork

Replaces "consistent" with "predictable", focusing on the expected nature of the regularity.

regular as clockwork

Swaps "consistent" with "regular", highlighting the rhythmic nature of the consistency.

reliable as clockwork

Substitutes "consistent" with "reliable", emphasizing dependability.

always on schedule

Shifts the focus to timeliness and adherence to a set plan.

runs like a well-oiled machine

Uses a mechanical metaphor to indicate smooth and uninterrupted operation.

like a Swiss watch

Compares to a Swiss watch, known for precision and reliability.

unfailingly regular

Uses "unfailingly" to add emphasis to the regularity of something.

meticulously timed

Highlights the precision and care taken in ensuring regularity.

by the numbers

Indicates adherence to a strict and predictable process.

according to plan

Focuses on sticking to a pre-arranged schedule or design.

FAQs

How can I use "as consistent as clockwork" in a sentence?

You can use "as consistent as clockwork" to describe something that happens reliably and predictably, often in a routine manner. For example: "The train service in this city is "as consistent as clockwork", arriving at the station every ten minutes."

What can I say instead of "as consistent as clockwork"?

You can use alternatives like "regular as clockwork", "reliable as clockwork", or "predictable like clockwork" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "as consistent as clockwork" or "as reliable as clockwork"?

Both "as consistent as clockwork" and "as reliable as clockwork" are valid. The choice depends on whether you want to emphasize the regularity or the dependability of something. "Consistent" highlights the uniformity, while "reliable" focuses on the trustworthiness.

What is the origin of the idiom "as consistent as clockwork"?

The idiom "as consistent as clockwork" refers to the precision and regularity associated with well-made clocks. Clocks, especially those made with intricate mechanisms, were historically symbols of accuracy and dependability, making the comparison a natural fit for describing anything that operates with similar precision.