as steady as

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as steady as" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something or someone that is very stable or consistent, often in comparison to something else. Example: "The ship sailed through the storm as steady as a rock."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"He is as steady as a rock.

The New York Times - Sports

Norway has been as steady as ever.

The Guardian - Sport

Maybe he's not as steady as he used to be.

The New York Times - Sports

Business is as steady as the pest is ubiquitous.

The New Yorker

But progress is not nearly as steady as some claim.

Nature

By Woody Allen As health-food stores go, the Hardened Artery is as steady as any.

The New Yorker

Mr. Carnahan's presence in Missouri politics was almost as steady as his personality.

The New York Times

The other was a new studio CD, "The Seer," as steady as it is cathartic.

The New Yorker

Aaron was as steady as the rising sun; Mays was exciting.

The New York Times - Sports

Brodeur was as steady as ever, making 22 saves against Roy's former team.

The New York Times

He answered with a mischievous smile: "He wasn't as steady as a tripod".

The Guardian - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "as steady as", ensure the comparison is easily understood and relatable to your audience. For instance, "as steady as a rock" is clearer than "as steady as a metronome" for general audiences.

Common error

Avoid using "as steady as" for abstract concepts that don't typically involve physical stability. For example, instead of saying "his support was as steady as a table", consider "his support was unwavering" or "his support was consistent".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as steady as" functions as a comparative adjective phrase. According to Ludwig, it is used to describe the stability or consistency of something by comparing it to a well-known stable entity. It often modifies nouns, indicating a quality of being firm, unwavering, or reliable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

69%

Wiki

13%

Science

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "as steady as" is a common and grammatically correct comparative adjective phrase used to describe stability and consistency. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is most frequently found in news and media sources. When using the phrase, ensure the comparison is clear and relatable to your audience, and avoid using it in abstract contexts where physical stability is not relevant. Related phrases include "as reliable as" and "as stable as", each with slightly different nuances. The phrase's widespread usage and clear meaning make it a valuable tool for effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as stable as

Highlights the ability to resist change or displacement.

as reliable as

Focuses more on dependability and trustworthiness rather than pure steadiness.

as firm as

Highlights the strength and resistance to pressure.

as dependable as

Stresses the quality of being relied upon with confidence.

as consistent as

Focuses on a pattern of behavior or performance that doesn't vary.

as solid as

Indicates a robust and unyielding quality.

as constant as

Emphasizes unchanging nature and regularity over physical stability.

as unshakeable as

Emphasizes the inability to be disturbed or dislodged, either physically or emotionally.

as unwavering as

Emphasizes firmness of purpose or resolve, rather than physical steadiness.

as resolute as

Similar to unwavering, but suggests a more active and determined stability.

FAQs

What does it mean to be "as steady as" something?

Being "as steady as" something means to be stable, consistent, and reliable, similar to the object or concept being referenced in the comparison. The phrase implies a high degree of firmness and resistance to change or wavering.

What can I say instead of "as steady as"?

You can use alternatives like "as reliable as", "as constant as", or "as stable as" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

How do I choose the best comparison for "as steady as"?

Select a comparison that is easily recognizable and immediately conveys the intended meaning. For instance, "as steady as a rock" implies immovability and stability, while "as steady as a surgeon's hand" implies precision and control.

Is it ever incorrect to use the phrase "as steady as"?

The phrase itself is grammatically correct. However, it can be misused if the comparison doesn't make logical sense or if a more precise adjective would be more effective. Ensure the comparison enhances understanding, not obscures it.