as set in stone

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as set in stone" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that something is fixed, unchangeable, or permanent. Example: "The deadlines for the project are as set in stone, so we must adhere to them strictly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

People with a fixed mindset see personality traits and abilities, including their own, as set in stone.

Harvard Business Review

The aim is for the governing body to be reactive rather than regarding everything as set in stone.

The Guardian - Sport

The main effect on me was the realisation that my values and principles weren't as set in stone as I'd initially believed.

The Guardian - Opinion

Once the crew have made the statement … it should be taken as set in stone and not something to try and whittle away at!

The Guardian - Business

In that essay, based on a set of at least seemingly persuasive logical axioms, Taylor (as have many before him) argued that, logically speaking, the future is essentially as set in stone as the past.

The New York Times - Books

As set in stone as these positions sounded, Beijing's approach to control of the South China Sea has evolved in important, if subtle, ways since international public opinion, especially in the region, has turned critical of its actions.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

This month's Recode and Wall Street Journal stories both suggest that YouTube's new boss Susan Wojcicki – a Google veteran – may be most open to the idea of buying Spotify, while news this week that the executive in charge of YouTube's upcoming subscription service is leaving the company suggests that the company's strategy isn't as set-in-stone as you might expect.

The Guardian - Tech

It is better to think of your strategy as not set in stone but rather as the most recent prototype being tested by the latest marketplace experience.

Harvard Business Review

Beyond that, the poll showed that a plurality of Americans do not see the Second Amendment as something set in stone.

The Washington Post

Trapattoni's starting XI has felt as if set in stone for the bulk of his five-year tenure but the lineup that will take on Austria at the Aviva Stadium on Tuesday night, in what has come to represent a tantalising opportunity after Friday's 0-0 draw in Sweden, will show nine changes from that which he favoured at last summer's European Championship.

The Guardian - Sport

We think of history as being set in stone, but those stones can be lost, stolen, or destroyed, particularly amidst the chaos of war.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When employing the phrase "as set in stone", be mindful of your audience and context. While it conveys a sense of certainty, overuse may come across as inflexible or resistant to change.

Common error

Avoid using "as set in stone" too frequently in your writing. Overuse can make your tone sound rigid and unyielding. Consider alternatives like "fixed" or "established" to maintain a balanced perspective.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as set in stone" functions as an adjectival phrase, modifying a noun to indicate its unchangeable nature. As Ludwig AI confirms, it signifies that something is established and not subject to alteration, drawing on the image of stone as a durable, permanent material.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

69%

Formal & Business

15%

Academia

8%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "as set in stone" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to convey the idea that something is fixed, unchangeable, and permanent. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. Predominantly found in News & Media, it also appears in Formal & Business and Academic contexts. While it can be used to emphasize the finality of a matter, overuse should be avoided to prevent sounding inflexible. Consider alternatives like "fixed", "immutable", or "carved in stone" to diversify your language.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

carved in stone

A more figurative expression emphasizing permanence and lasting impact.

set in concrete

Similar meaning, but concrete is a more modern material, more frequently used.

etched in stone

Similar to "carved in stone", but emphasizes the act of engraving.

written in stone

Implies that something has been formally documented and is therefore unchangeable.

fixed

A simpler term denoting a firm and unchangeable state.

unalterable

Highlights the inability to be altered or modified.

non-negotiable

Specifically highlights that something cannot be discussed or changed, often in a formal context.

immutable

Focuses on the unchangeable nature, often implying a fundamental characteristic.

irrevocable

Emphasizes that something cannot be taken back or undone.

entrenched

Suggests something is firmly established and difficult to change, like a deeply rooted belief.

FAQs

What does it mean when something is described as "as set in stone"?

When something is described as "as set in stone", it means that it is considered "fixed", unchangeable, and permanent. It implies a strong sense of finality and rigidity.

How can I use "as set in stone" in a sentence?

You can use "as set in stone" to emphasize that something is not open to negotiation or change. For example: "The deadlines for the project are as set in stone, so we must adhere to them strictly."

What are some alternatives to saying "as set in stone"?

You can use alternatives like "carved in stone", "immutable", or "fixed" depending on the context.

Is it always appropriate to use the phrase "as set in stone"?

While "as set in stone" can effectively convey permanence, it's important to use it judiciously. Overusing it can make you sound inflexible. Consider more adaptable phrases when the situation requires openness to change.