stand the test

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "stand the test" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that something has proven to be durable, reliable, or effective over time. Example: "The theory has stood the test of time, remaining relevant even after decades of research."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Will those stand the test of time?

The New York Times

They won't stand the test of time.

The Guardian

Will Vine stand the test of time?

The Guardian - Tech

It will stand the test of time.

The Guardian - Books

He wants his work to stand the test of time.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

But will these clothes really stand the test of time?

The New York Times

And it would stand the test of time, too.

The New York Times - Sports

"Phones don't stand the test of time," Mr. Donovan said.

The New York Times - Tech

Time Out would stand the test of time anyway.

The Guardian - Film

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

They're not all supposed to stand the test of time.

Huffington Post

It's going to stand the test of time.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "stand the test" in your writing, ensure that the context clearly indicates what is being tested and the criteria for success. Providing specific examples or evidence of the subject's durability or effectiveness will strengthen your argument.

Common error

Avoid assuming that something has "stood the test of time" simply because it has lasted for a while. The phrase implies a more rigorous evaluation against specific challenges or changes, not just mere longevity. Before using the expression, consider whether the subject has truly faced and overcome significant trials.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "stand the test" functions primarily as a predicate in sentences, asserting that a subject has endured and proven its value or quality over time. Ludwig AI confirms this through numerous examples where the phrase describes lasting qualities.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

74%

Science

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "stand the test" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to describe something that has proven its value and durability over time. Ludwig AI highlights its frequent use in contexts such as News & Media, Science, and Formal & Business, confirming its versatility across both formal and informal registers. When incorporating this phrase into your writing, ensure you provide a clear understanding of what specific "test" is being referenced and how the subject has successfully met its demands. Common alternatives include "withstand the trial" and "prove durable". Be mindful not to assume longevity alone equates to withstanding a true test of time. It is a powerful way to express confidence in something's long-term worth.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

pass the test of time

A more literal variation, directly referencing the trial imposed by time.

withstand the trial

Focuses on enduring a difficult situation or challenge.

prove durable

Emphasizes the lasting quality and resilience of something.

endure over time

Highlights the capacity to last and remain relevant as time passes.

hold up well

Suggests maintaining quality or condition despite the passage of time.

remain valid

Focuses on maintaining relevance and accuracy.

survive the passage of time

Highlights the resilience of a subject against time.

prove its worth

Shifts the emphasis to demonstrating value and utility.

maintain its integrity

Highlights the preservation of original qualities and principles.

continue to be effective

Emphasizes ongoing performance and usefulness.

FAQs

How can I use "stand the test" in a sentence?

You can use "stand the test" to describe something that has proven to be durable, reliable, or effective over time. For example, "This design has "stood the test of time", remaining popular for decades."

What is a good alternative to "stand the test"?

Alternatives to "stand the test" include phrases like "withstand the trial", "prove durable", or "endure over time", depending on the specific context.

What does it mean for something to "stand the test of time"?

When something "stands the test of time", it means that it has remained valuable, effective, or relevant despite significant changes or challenges over an extended period. It suggests that its quality or importance has been consistently maintained.

Which is more appropriate, "stand the test of time" or "pass the test of time"?

Both "stand the test of time" and "pass the test of time" are acceptable. "Stand the test of time" is more common and emphasizes endurance, while "pass the test of time" highlights successful evaluation.