English idiom

stand the test of time

Register · Neutral CEFR B2

Post

Figurative meaning

to remain effective, admired, or valuable over a long period

Word picture

Time is pictured as a demanding test that something must endure without failing.

Example

“Her first novel has stood the test of time and still attracts new readers.”

Dictionary details

Component words

test time

Tags

success
time

Expressions connected by reviewed component words or topic tags.

in the nick of time

at the latest moment when success is still possible

play for time

to delay deliberately in order to prepare or avoid an immediate outcome

test the waters

to try something cautiously before committing fully to it

crunch time

the final, high-pressure period before a deadline

race against time

a desperate hurry to finish before a deadline

smoke test

a quick, shallow test that checks whether a system's most basic functions work at all

Source methodology

Meanings, register, CEFR, and examples come from the reviewed dictionary record. Expression notes may describe a reviewed present-day word picture or a background note; they are not presented as verified etymology.

External links

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