set in stone
The phrase "set in stone" originates from the idea of carving words or symbols into stone, making them permanent and unchangeable.
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Definition
B2General
(idiomatic)Firmly established and not subject to change.
Example
- The schedule is not set in stone, so we can make adjustments if needed.
- Her decision to move abroad is set in stone.
B2Decision Making
(idiomatic)Decided and unlikely to be altered.
Example
- Once the contract is signed, the terms are set in stone.
- The rules are set in stone and cannot be changed.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "set in stone":
set bydead setsolid as a rockfoundation stonerock solidset onset to