Stand the test of time

Photo of author

Grammarist

Stand the test of time is an idiom that has been in use for several hundred years. We will examine the meaning of the idiom stand the test of time, where it came from, and some examples of its idiomatic usage in sentences.

To stand the test of time means that something has long-lasting value, that something is perpetually true, that something can withstand the passage of time for many, many years. For instance, the Iliad has stood the test of time because of its universal themes. The Taj Mahal has stood the test of time because of its extreme beauty and sturdy structure. The origin of the expression stand the test of time is uncertain; however, it is known to have come into use around the turn of the nineteenth century. Related phrases are stands the test of time, stood the test of time, standing the test of time. The term is sometimes expressed as withstand the test of time, withstands the test of time, withstood the test of time, withstanding the test of time, though these iterations are much less commonly used.

Examples

“This project brings together the rich history of Fredericksburg and the rich history of our national pastime into one incredible display that will stand the test of time.” (The Augusta Free Press)

I love the brand’s bags and wallets for the exact same reasons she did: They’re elegant and built to stand the test of time. (USA Today)

The hybrid drivetrain is based on engineering that’s stood the test of time for two decades. (Business Insider)