defies time

USAGE SUMMARY

"defies time" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase in written English.
It means something that cannot be affected or changed by the passing of time. Here are a few examples of how this phrase could be used in a sentence: - Despite being written over 100 years ago, Shakespeare's plays still defy time and continue to be relevant to modern audiences. - The ancient temple was built with such precision and durability that it has defied time and remained standing for centuries. - Her beauty was timeless and seemed to defy time itself. - The love between the two main characters was so strong that it defied time and distance.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

This takes time, but it eventually defies time, too, in a way that most of the other writing in town will not.

The New Yorker

By Agralan Ltd Aliplanter is made entirely from aluminium, a non-corrosive solid material that defies time, weight, water and other environmental factors.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Like Darrell Green and Doug Flutie, he is another of those amazing athletes -- players of 10-plus years whose excellence defies time.

The New York Times - Sports

Gardening defies time; you labour today in the interests of tomorrow; you think in seasons to come, cutting down the border this autumn but with next spring in your mind's eye.

The Guardian - Books

This is a cricketer who seemingly defies time, of course, with the bulk of his career in the colours of his country coming after most have long since called it a day.

The Guardian - Sport

A young man dipped his fingers in holy water at the door as he hurried in for a reassuring scene from countless Masses past: the vaulted apse, the twinkle of the candle-bedecked altar, the mixed aroma of incense and spring bouquets, and ultimately the priest at the altar preaching confidently of how "the spirit of the church" defies time.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

At age 37, Bonds is defying time.

The New York Times - Sports

David Seaman defied time and Sheffield United.

The Guardian - Sport

How long can they all defy time?

The New York Times

Who was he to defy time?

The New York Times - Books

Faces shine in moments of happy mutual recognition and defy time.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing something that is impressively durable or long-lasting, use "defies time" to emphasize its exceptional quality and ability to remain relevant or intact despite the passage of time. This is especially effective when contrasting with things that are more ephemeral.

Common error

Avoid using "defies time" in overly casual or trivial contexts. This phrase carries a tone of significance and should be reserved for situations where the endurance or timelessness being described is truly noteworthy, not just slightly old or durable. Using it inappropriately can sound hyperbolic or insincere.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "defies time" primarily functions as a verb phrase, often used to describe a noun's ability to resist the effects of aging, obsolescence, or change. As shown in Ludwig, it is used to characterize things that maintain their relevance or integrity over long periods.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "defies time" is a grammatically correct and usable expression that describes something resisting the effects of aging or obsolescence. As confirmed by Ludwig, the phrase effectively communicates endurance and is most frequently used in news and media contexts. While there are several semantically similar alternatives like "stands the test of time", and "remains timeless", "defies time" carries a particular emphasis on overcoming temporal limitations. When using this phrase, ensure the context warrants its somewhat formal tone to effectively convey lasting significance. Though "defies time" is not overly common, its use in reputable sources and its clear meaning make it a valuable addition to one's vocabulary for describing enduring qualities.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

stands the test of time

Changes the wording to a more common idiom indicating lasting quality.

endures through the ages

Emphasizes long-term survival and relevance.

remains timeless

Focuses on the unchanging nature of something.

outlives its era

Highlights surpassing the expected lifespan or relevance.

resists aging

Specifically addresses the resistance to the effects of aging.

transcends temporal boundaries

Uses more formal language to convey exceeding the limits of time.

defies obsolescence

Focuses on resisting becoming outdated.

maintains its relevance

Highlights continued importance and applicability.

cheats the passage of time

Employs a more figurative expression to indicate overcoming time's effects.

evades temporal decay

Uses stronger language to suggest avoiding degradation over time.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "defies time" in a sentence?

Use "defies time" to emphasize the enduring quality or relevance of something despite the passage of years. For instance, "The design of the building defies time, remaining stylish and functional after decades."

What's a simpler way to express the idea that something "defies time"?

Alternatives include phrases like "stands the test of time", "remains timeless", or "endures through the ages", which are more common in everyday language.

Is it correct to say something "defies time and space"?

Yes, this extension is often used figuratively to suggest something transcends not only temporal limitations but also physical constraints, indicating a universal or boundless quality.

In what contexts is "defies time" most appropriately used?

It's best suited for describing art, architecture, relationships, or ideas that have maintained their value and impact over extended periods, particularly when their longevity is remarkable or unexpected.