this is set in stone

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "this is set in stone" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that something is fixed, unchangeable, or permanent. Example: "The deadline for the project is set in stone, so we need to ensure everything is completed by then."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Tech

General

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

But none of this is set in stone.

The Guardian - Music

None of this is set in stone just yet.

The Guardian

None of this is set in stone or hostage to inexorable forces.

The Washington Post

The trouble is that little of this is set in stone: the North frequently cancels meetings at short notice.

The Economist

"The interesting question left unanswered is whether this is set in stone and those bits of your brain are hard-wired and determined by your genes, or whether if you bring people up in the right kind of social environment, those bits of the brain grow and therefore the number of people they can maintain as friends in adulthood increases".

The Guardian

If this is set in stone for release - as is likely - the Microsoft version is poised to give us the most aliasing of the two next-gen platforms by a noticeable degree, and is only a stone's throw from the sub-720p resolutions of current-gen releases.

The Guardian - Tech

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

Not all, however, believe that this plan is set in stone.

The New York Times

Obviously none of this stuff is set in stone and absolutely accurate but it's fairly clear that Woot is turning around.

TechCrunch

"This is just a recommendation, this is nothing that is set in stone," said Newport Beach Lifeguard Battalion Chief Rob Williams, who is part of the working group.

Los Angeles Times

"Amendments have been proposed to lessen the impact of this bill, but nothing is set in stone," the organization says on its website.

Huffington Post

This is not a list that is set in stone for the future".

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "this is set in stone" when you want to emphasize that a decision, plan, or rule is unchangeable. It adds a sense of finality and can help prevent further debate or negotiation.

Common error

Avoid using "this is set in stone" when there's a possibility of future adjustments. Overusing the phrase can create a rigid and inflexible environment, potentially hindering adaptation to changing circumstances.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "this is set in stone" functions as an idiomatic expression used to emphasize the immutability or finality of a decision, plan, or rule. As confirmed by Ludwig, it indicates that something cannot be changed. Examples show its use across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Tech

20%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "this is set in stone" is a common idiom used to express that something is unchangeable or final. As verified by Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and appears in diverse contexts, from News & Media to Tech. While it's a useful way to convey finality, it's important to use it judiciously to avoid creating an impression of inflexibility. Consider alternatives like ""this is final"" or ""this is non-negotiable"" depending on the specific context. The phrase is generally neutral in tone, making it suitable for a variety of settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

this is unchangeable

Directly states the inability to alter something, focusing on its immutable nature.

this is immutable

Emphasizes the fixed and permanent nature of something, suggesting it cannot be altered.

this is non-negotiable

Highlights that there is no room for discussion or compromise on a particular matter.

this is final

Indicates that a decision or arrangement has reached its conclusive state and cannot be revisited.

this is decided

Suggests a firm decision has been made, leaving no room for alteration.

this is established

Implies something has been firmly created or set up and is unlikely to change.

this is carved in stone

Similar idiom, reinforcing the permanence of something but is less common.

this is written in stone

Similar idiom, reinforcing the permanence of something but is less common.

this is a done deal

Indicates that an agreement or arrangement has been definitively completed.

this is irreversible

Highlights the inability to revert or undo something, emphasizing its permanent consequence.

FAQs

What does "this is set in stone" mean?

The expression "this is set in stone" means that something is fixed, unchangeable, or permanent. It suggests that a decision, plan, or rule cannot be altered.

What can I say instead of "this is set in stone"?

You can use alternatives like "this is final", "this is non-negotiable", or "this is unchangeable" to convey a similar meaning.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "this is set in stone"?

It's appropriate when you want to emphasize the unchangeable nature of something, such as a deadline, a rule, or a decision that has been finalized. However, be mindful of the context to avoid creating an overly rigid impression.

Is "this is set in stone" a formal or informal expression?

The expression is generally considered neutral in formality, suitable for both professional and casual contexts. However, consider your audience and the specific situation to ensure it aligns with the overall tone.