not set in stone

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'not set in stone' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is usually used to express that something isn't certain and can be changed. For example, "Our plans for tomorrow may change - they are not set in stone."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But standards are not set in stone.

The Economist

And "Kyoto" is not set in stone.

The Economist

"I'm not set in stone.

The New York Times - Sports

But this is not set in stone.

The Guardian

Income limits are not set in stone either.

The New York Times

Even that rule is not set in stone.

The New York Times

Anti-dumping duties are not set in stone.

The Economist

Of course, plans are not set in stone.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The light and color vary; it's not set in stone".

The New York Times

America's successful areas are not set in stone.

The Economist

But that plan was apparently not set in stone.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "not set in stone" to indicate that plans, rules, or ideas are subject to change or open for discussion. This phrase is particularly useful in contexts where flexibility is important.

Common error

Avoid using "not set in stone" to suggest complete uncertainty or chaos. It implies flexibility within a framework, not a total lack of structure. If something is completely uncertain, use phrases like "up in the air" or "undecided" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "not set in stone" functions as an adjective phrase, modifying a noun or idea to indicate that it is not fixed or unchangeable. As Ludwig AI explains, it suggests that something is flexible and open to modification.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

10%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Wiki

4%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "not set in stone" is a versatile expression used to indicate that something is flexible and subject to change. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically sound and widely used across various contexts, from news and media to scientific discussions. Alternatives like "subject to change" or "flexible" offer similar meanings. When using the phrase, ensure you're conveying flexibility within a framework, rather than complete uncertainty. By understanding its nuances and contexts, you can effectively communicate the possibility of change while maintaining clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

flexible

Emphasizes the capacity to adapt to different circumstances.

subject to change

Implies that something is not fixed and can be altered.

open to modification

States that something is receptive to being changed.

not yet finalized

Indicates that the final version has not been determined.

not definite

Indicates uncertainty or lack of finality.

liable to be changed

Highlights the probability of alteration.

up for grabs

Suggests that something is still available and not yet decided.

in flux

Describes something that is constantly changing.

malleable

Highlights the ability to be shaped or influenced.

under consideration

Suggests that something is still being evaluated and is not final.

FAQs

How can I use "not set in stone" in a sentence?

You can use "not set in stone" to indicate that something is flexible and subject to change. For example, "The deadline is "subject to change", it's "not set in stone".

What can I say instead of "not set in stone"?

Alternatives to "not set in stone" include "subject to change", "flexible", or "open to modification".

Is it better to say "not set in stone" or "not written in stone"?

Both "not set in stone" and "not written in stone" are acceptable, but "not set in stone" is more common and widely recognized. "Not written in stone" might sound slightly more formal.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "not set in stone"?

Use "not set in stone" when you want to convey that a plan, decision, or rule is not final and can be altered or adjusted based on new information or circumstances. It's ideal when communicating the possibility of change without implying complete uncertainty.