is ancient

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is ancient" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it to describe something that is very old or has existed for a long time. For example, "The artifact is ancient and holds great historical significance." Alternative expressions include "is old," "is archaic," and "is prehistoric."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

That is ancient indeed.

The Economist

My fear is ancient".

The New Yorker

The rest is ancient".

The New York Times

There is ancient philosophy, too.

The New York Times

It is ancient.

The Guardian - Arts

Red is ancient indeed.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

How ancient is ancient?

The Guardian

Ludlow courthouse is ancient.

The Guardian - Opinion

"This is ancient history".

The New York Times

This is ancient Egypt.

The Guardian - Travel

But interest in authorship is ancient.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "is ancient", ensure the context clearly establishes the time frame being referenced. Providing specific dates or periods can enhance clarity.

Common error

While "is ancient" is generally acceptable, avoid using it excessively in casual conversations or informal writing where simpler terms like "old" or "very old" may be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is ancient" primarily functions as a predicate adjective, modifying a noun or noun phrase to describe its age or origin. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is a correct and usable phrase. The examples show it describing things from historical periods to abstract concepts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

79%

Science

14%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is ancient" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to convey that something has existed for a very long time. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness. It's most commonly found in news and media, science, and formal writing. When using "is ancient", ensure the context clearly defines the time frame and avoid overuse in casual settings where simpler terms might suffice. Remember that it emphasizes great age and historical significance. The phrase functions as a predicate adjective and serves to highlight the age and often the cultural or historical weight of the subject.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is of considerable age

Focuses on the significant duration of existence.

is long-established

Focuses on the fact that something has been around and recognized for a lengthy period.

originates from a distant past

Highlights the point of origin being far back in time.

dates back to antiquity

Emphasizes the historical period to which something belongs.

existed since time immemorial

Implies that the origin is so old it's beyond memory or record.

is from time out of mind

Emphasizes that the origin is extremely old and beyond recollection.

belongs to a bygone era

Stresses that something is no longer current or modern.

is steeped in history

Suggests that something is rich with historical significance and events.

is a relic of the past

Indicates that something is a surviving trace of a former age.

has stood the test of time

Highlights the durability and survival of something over a long period.

FAQs

How can I use "is ancient" in a sentence?

The phrase "is ancient" is used to describe something that has existed for a very long time. For example, "This artifact "is ancient" and dates back to the Roman Empire".

What are some alternatives to using "is ancient"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "dates back to antiquity", "is of considerable age", or "is long-established" as alternatives.

When is it appropriate to use "is ancient" instead of "is old"?

"Is ancient" typically implies a significantly greater age and a connection to historical periods, whereas "is old" is a more general term for age. Use "is ancient" when emphasizing great age and historical significance.

Can "is ancient" be used to describe abstract concepts?

Yes, "is ancient" can be used metaphorically to describe ideas, traditions, or practices that have existed for a very long time. For example, "The concept of bartering "is ancient"".