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Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
time-tested
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "time-tested" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that has proven its reliability or effectiveness over a long period. Example: "The time-tested methods of this ancient practice continue to yield positive results in modern applications."
✓ Grammatically correct
News & Media
Science
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
54 human-written examples
It involves time-tested techniques for jobs, growth, and education -- a New Deal for Millennials.
News & Media
"It's a time-tested method".
News & Media
They used time-tested technology.
News & Media
It is a time-tested recipe.
News & Media
"Everything on the menu is time-tested.
News & Media
Instead, what works are time-tested strategies.
News & Media
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
6 human-written examples
Try my time tested recipe.
News & Media
Drinking water and sweating are time tested detoxification methods.
News & Media
Blame the messenger is a time tested strategy.
News & Media
Journalists have already cheered the move; FOIA has been a time tested investigative tool for reporters.
News & Media
The pantheon of stereotypes and negative typecasting the script relies on has been time tested.
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
Use "time-tested" when you want to highlight that something is not just new or trendy, but has consistently delivered results over time.
Common error
Avoid using "time-tested" repetitively in a single piece of writing. Overusing it can make your writing sound cliché. Use synonyms like "tried and true" or "well-established" to add variety.
Source & Trust
82%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "time-tested" primarily functions as an adjective to describe nouns. It emphasizes that the described noun, be it a method, strategy, or technique, has withstood the test of time and has proven its effectiveness over an extended period. Ludwig confirms its correct and usable nature in written English.
Frequent in
News & Media
78%
Science
12%
Wiki
4%
Less common in
Formal & Business
3%
Encyclopedias
2%
Reference
1%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, "time-tested" is a valuable adjective phrase used to describe something that has proven reliable and effective over a considerable period. As confirmed by Ludwig, it's grammatically correct and widely used in various contexts, predominantly in News & Media and Science. Its related phrases, such as "tried and true" and "well-established", offer alternative ways to convey a similar meaning. When using "time-tested", ensure variety in your writing and consider your audience and context to maintain clarity and credibility.
More alternative expressions(10)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
tried and true
Emphasizes the reliability of something due to long use.
well-established
Focuses on the firm establishment and recognition of something.
proven effective
Highlights the demonstrated effectiveness of something.
historically proven
Highlights the historical evidence of something's effectiveness.
long-standing
Indicates something that has existed or been in use for a long time.
reliably tested
Focuses on the reliability of testing methods applied.
battle-tested
Suggests something has been tested under difficult conditions.
age-old
Emphasizes the ancient origin and continued use of something.
venerable
Implies respect and admiration due to age and long use.
old faithful
Informal way to suggest something is known to be working.
FAQs
What does "time-tested" mean?
"Time-tested" means that something has been proven reliable or effective over a long period. It implies that through repeated use and experience, something has shown its value.
How can I use "time-tested" in a sentence?
You can use "time-tested" to describe methods, techniques, strategies, or products that have been used successfully for a long time. For example, "The company relies on "time-tested strategies" for marketing its products."
What are some alternatives to "time-tested"?
Alternatives include "tried and true", "well-established", "proven effective", and "long-standing". The best choice depends on the specific context.
Is "time-tested" formal or informal?
"Time-tested" is generally considered a neutral to slightly formal term. It is suitable for use in both professional and general writing contexts.
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Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
82%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested