Explanation of "Set in Stone"
Definition: The phrase "set in stone" means that something is fixed, permanent, and cannot be changed. It often refers to rules, agreements, plans, or decisions that are final and cannot be altered.
Usage Instructions
Context: Use "set in stone" when you want to describe something that is not flexible or can’t be modified. It’s often used in discussions about plans, schedules, or decisions.
Form: You can use it as an adjective (e.g., "The plan is set in stone.").
Examples
Simple Example: "The wedding date is set in stone, so we can't change it now."
Contextual Example: "Although the rules are usually set in stone, the committee decided to review them this year."
Advanced Usage
In a more advanced setting, you might use "set in stone" to discuss policies or agreements in a business or legal context. For example:
Word Variants
Set (verb): To place or fix something in a specific position.
Stone (noun): A hard, solid substance, often used metaphorically to suggest permanence.
Different Meanings
Outside of this specific phrase, "set" can mean to establish something, and "stone" can refer to a physical rock or be used in various idiomatic expressions (like "a stone's throw away").
Synonyms
Fixed
Permanent
Unchangeable
Final
Established
Related Idioms and Phrasal Verbs
"Cast in stone": This is a similar phrase that also means something is permanent.
"Written in stone": Another variant that emphasizes the unchangeable nature of a decision or rule.
Conclusion
"Set in stone" is a useful phrase to describe something that cannot be changed.