is set in stone

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is set in stone" is grammatically correct and commonly used in written English.
It means that something is fixed, permanent, or cannot be changed. It is often used to describe a decision, plan, or rule that cannot be altered. Example: The company's policy on dress code is set in stone and employees must adhere to it at all times.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

Nothing is set in stone".

Independent

But nothing is set in stone.

The New York Times - Sports

Quite literally, nothing is set in stone.

The Guardian - Travel

He did, however, say nothing is set in stone.

Independent

Nothing is set in stone any more, everything is fluid.

The Guardian

But none of this is set in stone.

The Guardian - Music

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

Some assumptions have been set in stone.

Cornell University

"Anything done before that meeting will be set in stone.

The Guardian

Houses can't be set in stone, of course.

The New York Times

None of these patterns, of course, are set in stone.

The New York Times

Dayton was not supposed to be set in stone.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

If you intend to leave room for potential changes, avoid using "is set in stone". Instead, opt for language that indicates flexibility or ongoing consideration.

Common error

Don't assume that everything implied by a document or agreement "is set in stone". Recognize that even seemingly fixed elements may be subject to renegotiation or legal challenges under certain circumstances.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is set in stone" functions as an idiomatic expression used to describe something that is fixed, permanent, and unchangeable. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage, indicating its role in conveying finality.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Wiki

19%

Science

11%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The idiom "is set in stone" is a commonly used phrase that conveys the idea of something being unchangeable, permanent, or definitively decided. Ludwig AI confirms that it's grammatically correct and widely accepted in English. Analysis of various sources reveals its frequent use in News & Media, Wiki, and scientific contexts. While it can be used in both formal and informal communication, it's best suited for scenarios where the intent is to highlight the finality and immutability of a specific decision or agreement. Related phrases, such as "is unchangeable" and "is immutable", offer alternative ways to express the same concept, but they may differ slightly in formality or emphasis. As demonstrated by examples, understanding the nuances of this idiom can improve the clarity and impact of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is unchangeable

This alternative directly emphasizes the inability to change something.

is immutable

This alternative is a more formal synonym, stressing the permanent nature of something.

is carved in stone

This alternative maintains the original metaphor with different wording. Similar to the original one, this phrase evokes a sense of permanence and inflexibility.

is written in stone

This alternative maintains the original metaphor with different wording. Similar to the original one, this phrase evokes a sense of permanence and inflexibility.

is decided

This alternative is a simpler, more direct way of saying a decision has been made and is unlikely to change.

is finalized

This alternative suggests that something has reached its ultimate form and will not be altered.

is irreversible

This alternative highlights the impossibility of reversing or undoing something.

is unalterable

This alternative emphasizes that something cannot be altered or modified.

is established

This alternative implies that something has been firmly established and is not easily changed.

is definitive

This alternative suggests that something is conclusive and not subject to further debate or change.

FAQs

How to use "is set in stone" in a sentence?

You can use "is set in stone" to emphasize that something is unchangeable or definitive. For instance, "The deadline for submitting the application "is set in stone", so be sure to submit it on time."

What can I say instead of "is set in stone"?

You can use alternatives like "is unchangeable", "is immutable", or "is finalized" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "is set in stone" or "was set in stone"?

"Is set in stone" indicates a present state of being unchangeable, while "was set in stone" refers to a past state. Choose the tense that accurately reflects the time frame you're discussing. For example: "The policy "is set in stone" now" versus "The policy "was set in stone" last year".

What does it mean when something "is set in stone"?

When something "is set in stone", it means that it's fixed, unalterable, and not subject to change. It implies a high degree of permanence and finality.