What does “Etched in stone” mean?
"Etched in stone" means that something is permanently fixed or unchangeable.
What context can I use the in?
Example
His words were etched in stone and could not be taken back.
Example
The rules of the game were etched in stone and could not be altered.
Example
Her decision to quit her job was etched in stone and could not be reversed
Is “Etched in stone” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Etched in stone” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “Etched in stone” effectively in context?
You can use "Etched in Stone" to describe something that is permanently fixed or unchangeable. It emphasizes the idea that a decision, rule, or statement is set in stone and cannot be altered or undone. For example, if someone makes a promise that they cannot break, you might say, 'His words were etched in stone and could not be taken back.'
- 1Promises
She made a vow to always be there for her best friend, and it was etched in stone.
- 2Rules
The rules of the competition were etched in stone and could not be changed.
- 3Decisions
Once she decided to move to another country, her choice was etched in stone.
Similar phrases to “Etched in stone”:
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Etched in stone” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Etched in Stone" is unknown.
Is “Etched in stone” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Etched in Stone" is a commonly used idiom in everyday conversation. People often use it to emphasize that something is permanent and cannot be changed.
What tone does “Etched in stone” have?
"Etched in Stone" conveys a tone of finality and permanence. It suggests that a decision or statement is firm and cannot be reversed or altered.
Can “Etched in stone” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "Etched in Stone" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that conveys the idea of something being unchangeable. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as presentations, meetings, or professional correspondence.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It's commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'The rules were etched in stone and could not be modified.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'It's "etched in stone"!' to imply that something is unchangeable.
