is age-old

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is age-old" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that has existed for a very long time or is very old in origin. Example: "The belief in the healing properties of herbs is age-old, passed down through generations."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

It is age-old party rhetoric, given a modern touch.

The Economist

The prophetic art is age-old; the practice of augury is well substantiated in the Bible.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The concept of a glorious battle death resulting in entry to warrior paradise is age-old, he says.

The Guardian - Film

The urge to apply ornament is age-old, and "The World of Ornament" (Taschen, $200), to be published July 24, offers weighty proof.

The New York Times

The practice of preserving fruit with sugar or honey is age-old, though one story of the toffee apple's creation claims it was born by accident.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The scientific question of whether we are "alone" in the universe is age-old, spanning Giordano Bruno's ideas of the 1500s, Immanuel Kant's writings in 1755, and, of course, science fiction.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

"It's age-old politics".

The New York Times

These are age-old American traditions that inspired our line".

The New York Times

Such complaints are age-old, but some now see hope for change.

The New York Times

It may be age-old advice, but it still rings true with interviews.

The Guardian

These attitudes are age-old and are bound to influence Chinese perceptions and behaviour as a global power.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "is age-old" to emphasize the long history and tradition behind something. It adds a sense of importance and credibility.

Common error

Avoid using "is age-old" excessively in contexts that require a modern or forward-looking perspective, as it can sound outdated or cliché. Instead, consider phrases like "long-standing" or "well-established" if appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is age-old" functions as an adjective phrase, typically used to modify a noun or pronoun, indicating that the subject has existed for a very long time. It is used to ascribe the quality of being ancient or time-honored. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase follows standard grammar rules.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

19%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

6%

Formal & Business

6%

Unknown

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "is age-old" is a grammatically sound adjective phrase used to describe something that has existed for a very long time. Ludwig AI validates its grammatical correctness and usability. It's commonly found in news, scientific and encyclopedic contexts, emphasizing the historical significance and enduring quality of the subject. While versatile, avoid overuse to prevent sounding cliché. Alternatives include "is ancient" or "is time-honored", offering subtle variations in meaning. Use "is age-old" strategically to add weight and credibility by highlighting a long history or tradition.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is ancient

Replaces "age-old" with "ancient", emphasizing the great age or antiquity.

is time-honored

Substitutes "age-old" with "time-honored", highlighting the respect and value associated with long-standing traditions.

is of long standing

Replaces the adjective with a descriptive phrase indicating duration.

has ancient origins

Shifts from adjective to a phrase emphasizing the origin and great age.

dates back centuries

Focuses on the historical aspect and the long period of existence.

is deeply rooted in history

Highlights the historical connection and firm establishment.

is a long-established tradition

Emphasizes the traditional aspect and its enduring nature.

is steeped in history

Similar to 'deeply rooted', emphasizing historical immersion.

is a tradition of long standing

Similar to 'is of long standing' but emphasizes the tradition.

is an enduring practice

Highlights the continuous existence of the practice over a long period.

FAQs

How can I use "is age-old" in a sentence?

You can use "is age-old" to describe traditions, practices, or questions that have existed for a very long time. For example, "The question of free will "is age-old"."

What are some alternatives to "is age-old"?

Alternatives include "is ancient", "is time-honored", or "is of long standing", depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "is age-old" in formal writing?

Yes, "is age-old" is appropriate for formal writing, especially when discussing historical or traditional topics. However, consider the tone and avoid overuse.

What's the difference between "is age-old" and "is old"?

"Is old" simply indicates that something has existed for a while. "Is age-old" emphasizes that something has existed for a very long time, often with a sense of tradition or historical significance.