like a rock

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "like a rock" is an idiomatic expression that can be used in written English.
It means to be strong, resilient, and dependable. For example: "John was reliable, like a rock."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"It's like a rock.

The New York Times

"It's like a rock concert.

The New Yorker

It felt like a rock.

The New Yorker

"He's like a rock star".

The New Yorker

Spoken like a rock star.

The New York Times

The euro is dropping like a rock.

The Economist

"He dressed like a rock star.

The New York Times - Sports

Did you feel like a rock star?

The New York Times - Magazine

"He's like a rock star," Wiswall said.

The New York Times - Sports

Which sounds like a rock band.

The New York Times

I felt like a rock star.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "like a rock", ensure the comparison to the characteristic solidity or stability of a rock is relevant and adds meaningful emphasis to the description. For instance, use it to describe a steadfast person or an unshakeable conviction.

Common error

Avoid using "like a rock" in overly predictable situations where the association is already obvious. Opt for more creative and nuanced comparisons to keep your writing engaging and original.

Linguistic Context

Simile. The phrase "like a rock" functions primarily as a simile, comparing the subject to the characteristics of a rock, such as strength, stability, and resilience. As evidenced by Ludwig, it is commonly used to emphasize these qualities in a descriptive manner.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "like a rock" is a common simile used to describe something or someone that is strong, stable, and reliable. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and finds frequent use in News & Media. When using "like a rock", ensure it adds meaningful emphasis to your writing by associating the subject with the inherent qualities of a rock. Alternatives include "solid as a rock" or "steady as a rock" to convey similar meanings. While versatile, avoid overuse in predictable contexts to maintain originality in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

solid as a rock

Emphasizes the unyielding and dependable nature, highlighting stability.

steady as a rock

Highlights the consistent and unwavering nature, focusing on resilience.

firm as a rock

Stresses the resistant and unshakeable quality, underscoring strength.

unwavering like stone

Shares the steadfast nature of stone, bringing a sense of solidity to the action or behaviour.

dropped like a stone

Implies a sudden and rapid fall or decline, suggesting swiftness and lack of resistance.

hit hard

Focuses on the forceful impact, emphasizing the strength of the collision.

immovable object

Denotes something that cannot be moved or changed, showcasing inflexibility.

reliable and strong

Highlights the qualities of dependability and power, focusing on trustworthiness.

consistent presence

Emphasizes continual existence or availability, focusing on dependability.

sudden impact

Implies an abrupt and forceful effect, emphasizing the immediacy of change.

FAQs

How can I use "like a rock" in a sentence?

You can use "like a rock" to describe something or someone that is strong, reliable, and unyielding. For example: "He was reliable, "like a rock", always there when I needed him."

What does it mean when someone says something hit me "like a rock"?

When someone says something hit them "like a rock", it means the news or information had a strong and impactful effect, often causing a significant emotional or mental reaction. It suggests the impact was sudden and forceful.

What are some alternatives to saying "like a rock"?

You can use alternatives like "solid as a rock", "steady as a rock", or "firm as a rock" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to use the phrase "like a rock"?

Yes, the phrase "like a rock" is grammatically correct and commonly used as a simile to describe something that is strong, stable, or unyielding.