Carved/set in stone Definition 1 of 3Pro Tip 1/3Changeability Used to emphasize the potential for change in rules or plans. Although our itinerary looks final, it isn't carved in stone. Pro Tip 2/3Expect Flexibility Indicates that, unlike literal stone, the subject can be adapted. Your job responsibilities are not carved in stone and can evolve. Pro Tip 3/3Metaphoric Use Used figuratively to represent rigidity but does not involve actual stone. The schedule is set in stone for now, but we can review it later.