grandfather clock

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "grandfather clock" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to a tall, freestanding clock that typically has a pendulum and is often associated with traditional or antique styles. Example: "The antique shop had a beautiful grandfather clock that chimed every hour."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A grandfather clock was flooded.

The Washington Post

Mr great-grandfather's grandfather clock.

The Guardian

Let Jason have the grandfather clock.

The New York Times

Ahead of him is the grandfather clock.

The New Yorker

In the drawing room, a grandfather clock tick… tocks.

Independent

A grandfather clock stands sentinel to the side.

The New York Times

The two of us can clean McCain's grandfather clock".

The New York Times

One night he puts his head inside a grandfather clock.

The New York Times - Books

The portraits of Lincoln and Washington have remained in their places, as has the grandfather clock.

The New York Times

In the spot where the Walters have a grandfather clock, Dimson has a giant Thai Buddha.

The New Yorker

Isaac Newton believed that time was regulated by a sort of cosmic grandfather clock.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a setting, use "grandfather clock" to evoke a sense of traditional elegance and history.

Common error

Avoid using "grandfather clock" when describing ultra-modern or minimalist interiors; it can feel out of place and anachronistic. Instead, opt for more generic terms like "clock" or specify a modern clock design.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "grandfather clock" functions primarily as a noun, specifically a common noun, identifying a specific type of tall, freestanding clock. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a valid and recognized term, as shown in several real-world examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Encyclopedias

10%

Formal & Business

2%

Less common in

Academia

1%

Wiki

1%

Science

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "grandfather clock" is a common and grammatically correct way to refer to a tall, freestanding clock. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and widespread usage. Predominantly found in News & Media and Encyclopedia contexts, it evokes a sense of tradition and history. While "longcase clock" is a more technical synonym, "grandfather clock" remains the more popular and recognizable term. When using it, ensure the context aligns with the traditional image the phrase conjures.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

longcase clock

Refers to the same type of clock but is a more technical term.

floor clock

Describes the clock's placement and physical characteristic.

tall case clock

Emphasizes the height and enclosure of the clock's mechanism.

antique clock

Highlights the clock's age and historical value.

pendulum clock

Focuses on the pendulum mechanism as the primary timekeeping feature.

standing clock

Describes the clock as a standing item, suitable when describing its position.

grandfather timepiece

Implies a sense of tradition and age.

heritage clock

Highlights the clock's connection to family history.

heirloom clock

Focuses on the clock as a cherished family possession passed down through generations.

time-honored clock

Emphasizes the clock's history and respect.

FAQs

How can I use "grandfather clock" in a sentence?

You can use "grandfather clock" to describe a tall, freestanding clock. For example, "The old house had a beautiful "grandfather clock" in the hallway."

What's another way to refer to a "grandfather clock"?

Alternatives include "longcase clock" or "floor clock", which are more technical or descriptive.

Is it grammatically correct to say "grandfather's clock" instead of "grandfather clock"?

While "grandfather's clock" is grammatically correct and implies the clock belongs to a grandfather, "grandfather clock" is the standard term for this type of clock and doesn't necessarily imply ownership. The meaning changes from a clock that belongs to someone's grandfather to the type of clock.

What is the difference between a "grandfather clock" and a "grandmother clock"?

A "grandfather clock" is typically taller and larger than a "grandmother clock", which is a similar style but smaller in size. The terms are related to the clock's size and stature.