passed the test of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "passed the test of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something has been evaluated and has met certain standards or criteria over time. Example: "The theory has passed the test of time, proving its validity through numerous experiments."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

52 human-written examples

"We haven't passed the test of earthquake forecasting," he said.

The New York Times

To those who have passed the test of loyalty, Mamet is an amusing, endearing, vigilant friend.

The New Yorker

But international observers said it had passed the test of a democratic election.

The Economist

Indeed, its veracity has passed the test of those sternest of eyes, the lexicographers at CollinsDictionary.com.com

The Economist

Even those uninterested in clothes look well-dressed and elegant, because the styles have passed the test of time.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Black Comedy is a classic farce that has passed the test of time, as a 1998 West End revival proved.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

7 human-written examples

India's agencies have passed the tests of the past decade.

The Economist

Ferreira passed the tests of English required by the university, but she had difficulties using the new language.

Science Magazine

We divided individuals' data into two separate days to compute the SIC because no one participant passed the tests of selective influence when combining across days.

Cognitive Research: Principles and Implications

They did pass the test of time!

The New York Times

Good information design always passes the test of time.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing abstract concepts (e.g., theories or policies), use "passed the test of" to convey their validation through real-world application or scrutiny.

Common error

While versatile, "passed the test of" can sound overly formal in casual conversation. Opt for simpler alternatives like "worked out" or "held up" in less formal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "passed the test of" functions as a predicate in sentences, indicating that a subject has successfully met certain criteria or standards. Ludwig confirms its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Science

34%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "passed the test of" is a versatile phrase used to denote that something has been validated or proven effective through scrutiny, time, or specific trials. As Ludwig indicates, the phrase is grammatically sound and frequently appears in news, scientific, and business contexts. When using this phrase, consider the level of formality required and choose simpler alternatives like "worked out" or "held up" for casual conversations. While "passed the test of time" is a common variant, alternative phrases such as "withstood the challenge of", ""stood the test of time"", and "validated by" can also be employed to enrich your writing and avoid repetition.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

stood the test of time

Specifically relates to endurance over a long duration.

satisfied the criteria of

More formal, indicating that requirements were met.

proved its worth in

Highlights the demonstrated value or usefulness in a particular context.

met the requirements of

Focuses on fulfilling specific conditions or prerequisites.

withstood the challenge of

Emphasizes resilience against difficulties, rather than meeting a specific criterion.

withstood scrutiny

Indicates resistance to careful and critical examination.

validated by

Implies formal confirmation or approval through evidence.

measured up to

Indicates that something has reached a required standard or expectation.

successfully completed

Focuses on the achievement of finishing something, implying the test was a task.

endured through

Focuses on survival through a period or event.

FAQs

What does it mean when something has "passed the test of" time?

It means that something has proven to be durable, effective, or valuable over a long period. The phrase implies that the subject has "stood the test of time" and remains relevant or useful.

How can I use "passed the test of" in a sentence?

You can use it to indicate that something has been validated or proven successful through experience or scrutiny. For example, "This economic theory has "proved its worth in" multiple market cycles."

What are some alternatives to "passed the test of"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "withstood scrutiny", "validated by", or "met the requirements of". Each option offers a slightly different nuance.

Is it more appropriate to say "passed the test of time" or "stood the test of time"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct and widely used, but ""stood the test of time"" is slightly more common. The choice often depends on personal preference or the specific context.