from ancient times

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "from ancient times" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when referring to a period of time in the distant past. For example, "Magic and mysticism have been part of many cultures from ancient times."

✓ Grammatically correct

Encyclopedias

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Zinc mining dates from ancient times.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It's from ancient times," added Ms Yamamoto.

Independent

From ancient times right up to today.

The Guardian

Style has been an object of study from ancient times.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It leads episodically from ancient times to the present.

The New York Times - Arts

From ancient times dance and theatre have played a vital role in China, Korea, and Japan.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Religious ceremonies require the use of drums and wind instruments preserved from ancient times.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Jatis and relations among them have been accessible to observers from ancient times to the present.

Encyclopedia Britannica

From ancient times people have palmed off fake valuables as the real thing.

The Economist

From ancient times, China has been the dominant and referential culture in East Asia.

Encyclopedia Britannica

That consciousness depends on the function of the brain has been known from ancient times.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "from ancient times" to emphasize the historical roots or long-standing tradition of a practice, belief, or object.

Common error

Avoid using "from ancient times" when referring to events within the last few centuries. Ensure the context truly reflects a period in the distant past. Using it for things that are just 'old' might be an overstatement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "from ancient times" functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb or clause. It specifies when something began or has been true, placing it in the distant past. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is commonly used in written English to refer to a period long ago.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Encyclopedias

32%

News & Media

32%

Science

24%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "from ancient times" is a versatile and grammatically sound prepositional phrase used to indicate that something originated or has existed since the distant past. As Ludwig AI states, it is commonly used in written English. Analysis of numerous examples reveals its prevalence across encyclopedias, news media, and scientific literature. While the phrase maintains a generally neutral to formal register, its impact lies in emphasizing the historical depth and long-standing nature of the subject it modifies. When writing with "from ancient times", ensure the context truly reflects something belonging to the distant past. Similar phrases include "since antiquity" and "in bygone eras", offering alternative ways to express the same idea with slightly different nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in antiquity

A more concise and formal way to refer to ancient times.

since antiquity

Replaces 'from' with 'since' and uses the more formal 'antiquity' instead of 'ancient times'.

in ancient civilizations

Specifically references ancient civilizations, making it more precise.

in ancient days

Uses 'days' instead of 'times', slightly less formal.

from the earliest ages

Highlights the beginning of a period.

in bygone eras

Replaces 'ancient' with 'bygone' and 'times' with 'eras', creating a more literary feel.

since time immemorial

A more emphatic way of saying "from ancient times", suggesting a period beyond memory.

from time out of mind

Similar to 'since time immemorial', emphasizing a very distant past.

in days of old

Evokes a sense of nostalgia and the distant past.

since the dawn of time

Emphasizes the very beginning of history.

FAQs

How can I use "from ancient times" in a sentence?

Use "from ancient times" to indicate that something has existed or been practiced since the distant past. For example, "Traditional medicine has been used "from ancient times" to treat various ailments".

What's a more formal way to say "from ancient times"?

A more formal alternative to "from ancient times" is "since antiquity". This phrase is suitable for academic or historical writing.

Is it correct to say "dating from ancient times"?

Yes, "dating "dating from ancient times"" is a correct and common phrase used to indicate that something originated in the distant past.

What is the difference between "from ancient times" and "in ancient times"?

"From ancient times" indicates a continuous period starting in the past and possibly extending to the present. "In ancient times" refers to a specific period in the past. For example, "Practices "from ancient times" still influence modern society", compared to, "Life "in ancient times" was vastly different".