Reading Time: 3 minutes
Level: Intermediate (B1)
Introduction to the Idiom
When you want to describe something that is unchangeable, the phrase “set in stone” is an ideal choice. This expression is widely used to indicate that something is fixed and cannot be altered, making it perfect for both everyday conversations and more formal contexts. Whether you’re discussing rules, decisions, or plans, “set in stone” adds a visual and idiomatic touch to your language.
What Does “Set in Stone” Mean?
“Set in stone” is a phrase used to describe something that is permanent and unchangeable. The phrase suggests that, like words carved into stone, the decision, rule, or plan is fixed and cannot be altered. It’s often used to emphasize the firmness of a decision or the inflexibility of a plan.
Practical Applications of the Idiom
Everyday Conversations
In daily life, we often discuss situations where decisions or plans are firm and cannot be changed. “Set in stone” is the perfect phrase to use in these moments, adding a vivid and idiomatic expression to your language.
For example:
- “The schedule is not set in stone; there’s still room for adjustments.”
This sentence indicates that the schedule can be changed and is not entirely fixed. - “Once the contract is signed, the terms are set in stone.”
Here, the phrase is used to describe terms that cannot be altered after the contract is signed.
IELTS Speaking and Writing
For IELTS candidates, using phrases like “set in stone” can enhance your speaking and writing performance. This expression is particularly useful when discussing rules, decisions, or plans that are firm and not open to change.
Consider these examples:
- “The deadline is set in stone, so all work must be submitted by that date.”
In this context, the phrase emphasizes the unchangeable nature of the deadline. - “The policy was set in stone, leaving no room for negotiation.”
This sentence would be effective in a discussion about strict rules or unalterable decisions.
Why Use This Phrase?
Adds a Visual and Firm Tone to Your Language
While you could say “unchangeable,” using “set in stone” adds a more idiomatic and visual tone to your language. It not only communicates permanence but does so in a way that is more vivid and impactful.
Enhances Clarity and Strength in Communication
Incorporating phrases like “set in stone” into your speech or writing can improve your ability to describe firm decisions or rules with clarity and strength. Whether in casual conversations, academic essays, or professional documents, this phrase helps you articulate the importance of permanence in a clear and memorable way.
Similar Expressions and Alternatives
While “set in stone” is a common and effective way to describe something unchangeable, there are other phrases that can convey similar meanings. Knowing these alternatives allows you to diversify your language and avoid repetition:
- “Unchangeable.”
A straightforward adjective that indicates something cannot be altered. - “Carved in stone.”
A similar phrase that emphasizes permanence and inflexibility. - “Fixed.”
A simple word that describes something as being firmly established and not subject to change.
Conclusion
“Set in stone” is a powerful phrase that effectively describes situations where decisions, rules, or plans are unchangeable. Whether you’re preparing for an IELTS exam, discussing firm policies in a formal document, or simply describing something permanent, this phrase adds a visual and idiomatic touch to your language. It serves as a clear and engaging way to communicate the idea of permanence. The next time you need to describe something that cannot be changed, remember to use “set in stone” for a more idiomatic and expressive statement.
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