timeless

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "timeless" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use the word "timeless" to describe something that does not get old or outdated over time. For example: "The classic children's book has remained timeless over the years."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

There's certainly an air of the sepulchral on debut single Holland (on paradYse Records) with its refrain: "Into dust we will all return," but it's a timeless and eerily comforting kind of meditation, on faith, loss and redemption, much like abolition-era hymnals – haunting and healing in equal measures.

The Guardian

With its clean prose, timeless political relevance, and emotional charge, the play was probably one of the few texts capable of engaging the sceptical Scot's interest.

The Guardian - Film

Later, he spells Turner's importance out: 'This guy was a revolutionary, anticipating the impressionists and 20th-century art – anticipating Rothko probably – and yet he was timeless".

The Guardian - Film

But perhaps the most interesting lesson to draw from the timeless story that is Hadley Buys a Coat (truly, it will be studied by scholars for centuries) is that boyfriends don't like boyfriend clothes.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

She clung to the timeless in a world of insistent news.

The Guardian - Arts

The smokestacks of factories billow pollution into the ethereal, magnificently rendered atmosphere – Seurat seems to paint every molecule of oxygen and smoke – but here on the riverside is a moment of timeless summer peace.

The Guardian - Arts

This is not because of the usual cliches about Arab or Ottoman cities – that they are "timeless", "medieval" and so on.

The Guardian

Applying new labels to a timeless problem veils the jagged reality with woolly language – often used to justify actions that directly harm those most in need.

The Guardian - Opinion

Aside from Wendy's "Tena Lady moment" there's not much zeitgeist surfing to be done here, which actually serves to heighten the timeless Pinteresque intensity of the piece (yes, the word "piece" actually feels suitable this week).

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Cristina Anolín, the Dominican hospital's medical director, said: "There was a time in the hospital where we started to receive several cancer patients rejected from other health centres in the city because, since they were terminal cases, they were seen just as timeless bed occupants.

The Guardian

I felt as I had in other great cities at night - as if I was in a timeless and magical place.

The Guardian - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "timeless" to describe concepts, artworks, or styles that maintain their relevance and appeal across different eras. For instance, a "timeless" design remains fashionable regardless of current trends.

Common error

Avoid using "timeless" to describe short-lived trends or fads. The term implies enduring quality, not temporary popularity. Otherwise, you may make it look like you are overselling a product.

Linguistic Context

The word "timeless" functions primarily as an adjective. It modifies nouns to describe something that is not affected by time, or that remains valuable and relevant regardless of the era. Ludwig AI confirms that "timeless" is correct and can be used in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Formal & Business

30%

Science

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Academia

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "timeless" is a versatile adjective used to describe something that transcends the constraints of time, maintaining its value and relevance across generations. According to Ludwig AI, it's grammatically correct and suitable for written English. Examples highlight its prevalence in diverse contexts, from news and media to formal business and even scientific discourse. The most frequent sources employing "timeless" include The Guardian and The Economist, attesting to its authority in quality writing. While generally neutral to formal, its capacity to convey lasting quality makes it a powerful descriptor, especially when aiming to emphasize enduring impact. Remember to avoid using "timeless" when describing a fleeting trend!

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

eternal

Focuses on infinite duration and existence without end.

ageless

Emphasizes a lack of visible aging or relevance to a specific time period.

enduring

Highlights the ability to last and withstand the test of time.

everlasting

Stresses continuous existence without termination.

perennial

Implies recurring relevance and consistent appeal over time, like a plant that returns each year.

classic

Indicates adherence to recognized standards of excellence and enduring appeal.

dateless

Underscores the absence of any marker associating something to a period.

immutable

Highlights the unchangeable and permanent character of something.

unfading

Emphasizes the sustained quality and lack of diminishing appeal.

time-honored

Highlights the tradition and respect associated with something that has existed for a long time.

FAQs

How can I use "timeless" in a sentence?

You can use "timeless" to describe something that remains relevant and valuable regardless of the era. For example, "The Mona Lisa is a "timeless" work of art."

What is a synonym for "timeless"?

Synonyms for "timeless" include "eternal", "ageless", and "enduring". Each carries a slightly different nuance related to lasting appeal and relevance.

What's the difference between "timeless" and "classic"?

"Timeless" suggests something is not affected by time, while "classic" implies adherence to recognized standards. A "classic" may become "timeless" if it continues to be valued across generations.

When is it appropriate to use "timeless" instead of "eternal"?

"Timeless" is best used to describe the quality of something not being affected by time, often in a cultural or aesthetic sense. "Eternal" is better suited for concepts of infinite duration or spiritual significance. For instance, a piece of music might be "timeless", while the soul is often described as "eternal".