ironclad

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "ironclad" is correct and usable in written English.
It is usually used to describe something that is guaranteed, unshakable, or unbreakable. For example, "The organization's commitment to customer satisfaction is ironclad."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Kiska's triumph clouds the future for Fico, who previously enjoyed ironclad popularity, as he gears up for the 2016 general election.

The Guardian

"We've got bigger problems in this country than worrying about whether the security around DC is ironclad," Hughes said.

The Guardian

The government would require an "ironclad guarantee" from a partner country that an Australian requiring treatment, regardless of condition, would be flown there and receive treatment.

The Guardian

Can they be forgone without ironclad guarantees?Mr Erdogan's record suggests he has the skill and the courage to heal Turkey's biggest wound.

The Economist

"THEY never come back" may be an ironclad law of boxing, but AOL and Yahoo! are trying to prove that it does not apply to lumbering online giants.

The Economist

It means that the Scottish government will not be able to give an ironclad guarantee to its bondholders that the cash (pounds) will always be there to pay them out at maturity.

The Economist

Loosely regulated "shadow banks" make up much of the rest.But there is no ironclad law that a big rise in debt must result in crisis.

The Economist

Fortunately for the government, the country's prime minister, Shinzo Abe, has ironclad conservative credentials.

The Economist

For a start, Mr Obama, who at AIPAC promised his "ironclad" support for Israel's security, has already put America's money where his mouth is.

The Economist

"It strengthens investors' expectations of an ironclad guarantee for bond repayment," says Zhang Li of Guotai Jun'an, a brokerage.Half the buildings at Chaori's factory in Shanghai's far southern suburb of Fengxian are abandoned, save for two security guards growing red beans on a patch of soil in front.

The Economist

Yet it is also resisting foreign pressure, and Swiss prosecutors' instincts, for the dismantling of what remains of the country's once ironclad banking secrecy.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "ironclad" to describe agreements, guarantees, or defenses that are exceptionally strong and unlikely to fail. Ensure the context clearly conveys the sense of invulnerability or certainty.

Common error

Avoid using "ironclad" excessively, as it can sound hyperbolic. Opt for more nuanced language if the situation doesn't genuinely warrant such a strong term. For example, using "strong" or "solid" might be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "ironclad" is as an adjective. It modifies nouns to describe something as being extremely secure, firm, or impervious to attack or doubt. Ludwig AI confirms its use in various contexts, highlighting its role in adding emphasis and assurance.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Encyclopedias

26%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Science

4%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "ironclad" functions primarily as an adjective to describe something exceptionally secure and unyielding. According to Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and frequently used. It often appears in news and media contexts, as well as encyclopedias, suggesting a relatively formal register. When writing, use "ironclad" to convey a sense of invulnerability or absolute certainty, but avoid overusing it to prevent sounding hyperbolic. Consider alternatives like "unbreakable" or "watertight" for similar, yet nuanced, meanings. Remember that while "ironclad" denotes strength, overusing it can diminish its impact, so choose your words judiciously.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unbreakable

Emphasizes the resilience and inability to be broken or violated.

indisputable

Highlights the lack of room for argument or doubt.

unquestionable

Similar to indisputable, focusing on the certainty and lack of doubt.

watertight

Suggests an argument or system that has no flaws or loopholes.

impregnable

Stresses the impossibility of being penetrated or overcome.

irrefutable

Highlights the impossibility of being disproven.

rock solid

Emphasizes the stability and reliability.

cast-iron

Focuses on strength and durability, similar to ironclad.

bulletproof

Implies resistance to criticism or attack.

guaranteed

Focuses on the assurance of a particular outcome.

FAQs

How can I use "ironclad" in a sentence?

You can use "ironclad" to describe something that is extremely secure, certain, or unbreakable. For instance, "The contract provided an ironclad guarantee of payment".

What is a good synonym for "ironclad"?

Alternatives include "unbreakable", "indisputable", or "watertight", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "an ironclad rule"?

Yes, it's correct. "Ironclad rule" implies a rule that is strict, inflexible, and without exceptions.

What's the difference between "ironclad" and "strong"?

"Strong" indicates general strength or resilience, while "ironclad" suggests an almost impenetrable or unbreakable quality. "Ironclad" implies a higher degree of certainty and security than "strong".