throughout the centuries

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "throughout the centuries" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to describe a lengthy period of time, usually referring to numerous centuries. For example, you could say, "The castle has remained standing throughout the centuries."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

It juxtaposes it against shrinking Iranian territory throughout the centuries.

The Guardian

Throughout the centuries, the truce was almost universally observed.

The New Yorker

Many inventors have modeled machines after animals throughout the centuries.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Interpretations of these paintings have varied throughout the centuries.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Such has been the stuff of dark propagandists throughout the centuries.

The Guardian - Opinion

Throughout the centuries both faced cruel persecution and often found refuge with one another.

The New York Times

The writing itself and the thoughtfulness that it stimulates has inspired admiration in uncounted numbers of readers throughout the centuries.

The Guardian

The greatest icon of them all may well be King Arthur, who has inspired thousands of texts throughout the centuries.

The New York Times - Books

Throughout the centuries, the fierceness of the Chechen resistance to Russian domination has inspired Russians to heights of venomous oratory.

The New York Times - Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

I see this pattern throughout the century".

The New York Times

The translation of Aristotle into Latin continued throughout the century.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "throughout the centuries" to emphasize the enduring nature or long-term persistence of a phenomenon, idea, or tradition. For example, "The principles of democracy have evolved "throughout the centuries"."

Common error

Avoid using "throughout the centuries" when a more specific timeframe would be more accurate. For example, instead of saying "Medical practices have changed "throughout the centuries", specify which periods saw the most significant changes if possible.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "throughout the centuries" functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb or clause. It indicates the time frame during which an action, event, or state occurred or persisted. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in numerous contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Encyclopedias

22%

Science

17%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "throughout the centuries" is a versatile and grammatically sound way to indicate that something has persisted or occurred over a considerable period of time, specifically spanning multiple centuries. Ludwig AI validates its widespread usage across various domains, including news, encyclopedias, and scientific literature. When using this phrase, consider the specific context and whether a more precise timeframe might be more appropriate. Alternatives such as "over the centuries" or "down through the ages" can offer subtle variations in meaning. It's worth highlighting how the phrase has a register that is generally neutral, suitable for both formal and informal contexts. In conclusion, "throughout the centuries" is a reliable and effective means of conveying the long-term endurance of a concept or phenomenon.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

over the centuries

Similar in meaning, but slightly more concise.

across the centuries

Implies a traversing or spanning across time periods.

down through the ages

More evocative and literary, suggesting a transmission through time.

for centuries

Focuses on the duration rather than the continuous presence.

in the course of centuries

More formal and emphasizes the process of time passing.

throughout history

Broader scope, encompassing all of recorded time.

over extended periods

More general, lacks the specific historical weight of "centuries".

in bygone eras

Focuses on past periods, less about continuous presence.

since time immemorial

Implies a longer, less defined period than "centuries".

from ancient times

Focuses on the origin in the distant past.

FAQs

How can I use "throughout the centuries" in a sentence?

Use "throughout the centuries" to describe something that has occurred or persisted over a long period of time. For example, "Artistic styles have changed "throughout the centuries", reflecting societal shifts and cultural influences."

What phrases are similar to "throughout the centuries"?

Similar phrases include "over the centuries", "across the centuries", and "down through the ages". Each offers a slightly different nuance in expressing the passage of time.

Is it better to say "throughout the centuries" or "throughout history"?

"Throughout history" is broader, encompassing all of recorded time. "Throughout the centuries" refers specifically to a period spanning multiple centuries. The best choice depends on the specific timeframe you wish to emphasize. If you want to highlight a phenomena during a shorter period use "throughout the years".

What is the difference between "throughout the centuries" and "in recent centuries"?

"Throughout the centuries" implies a continuous presence or development over many centuries. "In recent centuries" focuses on events or changes that have occurred only in the most recent centuries. For instance: The use of fossil fuels has increased dramatically "in recent centuries".