built to last

USAGE SUMMARY

"built to last" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to something that has the potential to endure for a long period of time, such as a strong relationship, a sturdy structure, or a reliable item. For example: "This device is well-made and built to last; I'm sure it will last me for years to come."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

Built to last.

The New Yorker

They were built to last.

The New Yorker

IN JAPAN companies are built to last.

The Economist

"Institutions are built to last," she said.

The New York Times

That's an America built to last.

The New York Times

But they are built to last.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

It won't be built to last".

Independent

They're built to last.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"These are built to last," says Turner.

The Guardian - Business

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

A bridge is built to last 50 years.

Huffington Post

And built to last.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In a more abstract sense, apply "built to last" to strategies, relationships, or institutions to highlight their potential for long-term success and stability.

Common error

Avoid using "built to last" when describing something inherently temporary or rapidly evolving, like a social media trend or a short-term marketing campaign. It implies a longevity that isn't applicable.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "built to last" primarily functions as an adjective phrase, modifying nouns to indicate durability and longevity. As Ludwig AI states, it can describe the potential of something to endure for a long period. Ludwig's examples showcase its use in various contexts, ranging from describing physical objects to abstract concepts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Formal & Business

12%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "built to last" is a versatile adjective phrase used to emphasize durability and longevity. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and applicable in various contexts, from describing physical objects to abstract concepts. The phrase maintains a neutral register, making it suitable for both formal and informal communication, though more technical synonyms might be preferred in highly academic settings. Ludwig examples illustrate its frequent use in News & Media, Formal & Business, and Wiki sources, demonstrating its widespread acceptance and understanding. Ludwig also provides valuable writing guidance, advising against its overuse in transient contexts and highlighting its effectiveness in conveying reliability and endurance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

long-lasting

A general term emphasizing the property of lasting for a long time.

created for long life

Simple and direct, focusing on extended lifespan.

made to endure

Focuses on the capacity to withstand challenges and remain functional.

meant to stand the test of time

Expresses the ability to remain relevant and functional over a long period.

designed for longevity

Emphasizes the design aspect with a focus on long-term existence.

durable by design

Focuses on the inherent durability resulting from the design.

engineered for durability

Highlights the engineering aspect, stressing resistance to wear and tear.

fashioned to last

Highlights the craftsmanship involved with the intention of lasting.

constructed for permanence

Emphasizes the intention of being permanent and unchangeable.

imperishable

A more formal term indicating the inability to decay or be destroyed.

FAQs

How can I use "built to last" in a sentence?

You can use "built to last" to describe physical objects with durable construction, such as, "This furniture is "built to last"". It can also refer to enduring strategies or institutions, as in, "They are developing a business model "built to last"".

What are some alternatives to "built to last"?

Alternatives include "designed for longevity", "made to endure", or "engineered for durability", depending on the context you're aiming for.

Is "built to last" a formal or informal expression?

"Built to last" is generally considered a neutral expression suitable for both formal and informal contexts. However, in highly formal or academic writing, more technical synonyms like "engineered for durability" might be preferred.

What does it mean when something is described as "built to last"?

When something is described as "built to last", it signifies that it has been constructed or designed with the intention of being durable, reliable, and capable of enduring for a long time. It suggests a high level of quality and resistance to wear and tear.