etched in

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "etched in" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe something that is permanently marked or engraved, often in a metaphorical sense to indicate a lasting impression or memory. Example: "The lessons learned from that experience are etched in my mind forever."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

"It's not etched in stone".

The New York Times

Is it etched in stone?

The New York Times

I'm etched in history".

The New York Times

"It's etched in stone," he said.

The New York Times - Books

Nothing is ever etched in stone.

The New York Times - Sports

"Our starters are not etched in stone".

The New York Times - Sports

Apologies are etched in stone.

The Guardian - Film

"Etched in bronze," he says.

The New York Times

"Etched in bronze," Misaka said.

The New York Times - Sports

His comments were mostly etched in acid.

The New York Times - Style

Nothing is etched in stone yet".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "etched in" to vividly describe memories, experiences, or principles that are deeply ingrained and unlikely to be forgotten. This phrase adds emotional depth and emphasizes the lasting significance of the subject.

Common error

Avoid using "etched in" for fleeting or insignificant events. This phrase is most effective when describing something profoundly impactful, and overuse can diminish its power.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "etched in" primarily functions as a prepositional phrase, often modifying a noun or pronoun to describe something that is permanently marked or ingrained. Ludwig examples show it used to describe memories, feelings, or historical events that are deeply impactful.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Encyclopedias

11%

Wiki

3%

Less common in

Science

8%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "etched in" is a common and grammatically sound prepositional phrase used to convey the idea of permanence or a lasting impression. As confirmed by Ludwig, it's frequently used in News & Media, Encyclopedias and Wiki. This phrase indicates that something is deeply ingrained or unforgettable. To enrich your writing, consider alternatives like "engraved in" or "imprinted on". However, avoid overuse in trivial contexts to maintain its impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

engraved in

Focuses on the physical act of carving or marking, similar to "etched in", implying permanence.

imprinted on

Emphasizes the lasting impact or impression left on something or someone.

indelibly marked in

Highlights the impossibility of removing or forgetting something.

fixed in

Suggests something is firmly established and unchangeable.

ingrained in

Implies something is deeply rooted and difficult to alter.

inscribed in

Similar to engraved, but can also refer to a more symbolic or metaphorical inscription.

rooted in

Highlights the deep origins or foundations of something.

firmly established in

Emphasizes the stability and permanence of something.

deeply embedded in

Highlights the extensive integration or permeation of something.

permanently fixed in

Combines permanence with the idea of being unmovable or unchangeable.

FAQs

How can I use "etched in" in a sentence?

You can use "etched in" to describe memories or experiences that are unforgettable and deeply ingrained, such as, "The memory of that day is "etched in" my mind forever".

What are some alternatives to "etched in"?

Some alternatives to "etched in" include "engraved in", "imprinted on", or "indelibly marked in", which all convey a sense of permanence or lasting impact.

Is it more appropriate to say "etched in my mind" or "etched on my mind"?

"Etched in my mind" is the more common and idiomatic expression. While "etched on my mind" is not grammatically incorrect, it's less frequently used.

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

When something is "etched in stone", it means it's fixed, unchangeable, or permanent. It implies a high degree of certainty or finality.