stood the test of time

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "stood the test of time" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase to refer to something that has been around for a long time and has remained popular or successful. For example, you could say: "The Beatles' music has really stood the test of time - it's still as popular today as it was fifty years ago."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

52 human-written examples

Something stood the test of time.

The New York Times

They had stood the test of time.

The New York Times - Travel

They have stood the test of time.

The Guardian - Music

"It's stood the test of time.

The New York Times - Sports

Laparoscopic pyeloplasty in children has stood the test of time.

Journal of Pediatric Urology

His reviews have stood the test of time, Geballe said.

Stanford University

Has the book stood the test of time?

The Guardian

But one that stood the test of time.

The Guardian - Books

And that sound has stood the test of time.

The Guardian - Music

But these houses have stood the test of time.

The Guardian

What has stood the test of time about Stella?

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing historical trends or long-term successes, use "stood the test of time" to emphasize the enduring quality of the subject. For example, "Classical architecture has stood the test of time, continuing to inspire modern designs."

Common error

Avoid using the present tense when discussing past events. Instead of saying 'this idea stands the test of time', ensure you use the past tense: 'this idea has stood the test of time'.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "stood the test of time" functions as a predicate phrase, typically modifying a noun or noun phrase to indicate that something has remained valid, effective, or popular over a considerable duration. Ludwig AI confirms its accurate usage in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Academia

17%

Science

17%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "stood the test of time" is a commonly used and grammatically correct idiom that signifies something has remained valid, effective, or popular over a long period. Ludwig AI validates its use in a wide array of contexts. It frequently appears in news and media, academia, and scientific publications, reflecting its broad applicability. When using this phrase, ensure that the tense is correct and that it aligns with the subject being described. Consider alternatives like "remained relevant" or "endured through the ages" to add nuance to your writing. In summary, "stood the test of time" is a reliable way to emphasize the enduring quality and relevance of a subject.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

withstood the passage of years

Similar to the original but emphasizes the continuous flow of time.

held up over time

A more casual way of saying something has lasted well.

has been long-lasting

Highlights the duration of something's existence or effectiveness.

remained relevant

Highlights the continued importance or applicability of something.

has staying power

Focuses on the capacity to remain popular or effective.

proven its durability

Focuses on the ability to withstand wear and tear.

retained its value

Emphasizes that the worth or quality has not diminished.

has aged well

Commonly used to describe things that have improved or maintained quality over time.

endured through the ages

Implies survival across very long historical periods.

lasted the distance

Suggests a completion of a long and challenging period.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "stood the test of time"?

Consider using alternatives such as "remained relevant", "endured through the ages", or "withstood the passage of years" depending on the context.

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

It means that something has remained popular, effective, or of high quality over a long period. It implies durability and lasting value.

Is "stood the test of time" an idiom?

Yes, "stood the test of time" is an idiom. It's a figurative expression that means something has proven its worth and effectiveness over a long duration.

Can "stood the test of time" be used for both physical objects and abstract ideas?

Yes, it can be used for both. For instance, you can say that a building has "stood the test of time", or that a philosophical idea has "stood the test of time".