concrete
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be cast in concrete
To be firmly or permanently established; to be unalterable or not subject to change. The healthcare law looks promising, but we'll have to wait until it's cast in concrete before we know exactly what it will do.
be set in concrete
To be definitely and permanently decided or planned. We might get brunch next weekend, but nothing is set in concrete yet.
cast in concrete
Firmly or permanently established; not subject to change; unalterable. The healthcare law looks promising, but we'll have to wait until it's cast in concrete before we know exactly what it will do.
concrete jungle
An overcrowded, unsafe and/or crime-ridden urban environment or city, characterized by the congestion of large buildings and roads. After years living in that concrete jungle, I'm looking forward to being in a place with a bit of grass and friendly neighbors.
concrete overcoat
slang Concrete poured over a dead body, as to hide or dispose of it. Used primarily in films and literature describing the activities of gangsters. I gave that stool pigeon a concrete overcoat, boss—he won't be talking to the police ever again.
set (something) in concrete
To establish something firmly or permanently; to make something unalterable or not subject to change. The healthcare law looks promising, but we'll have to wait until Congress sets it in concrete before we know exactly what it will do.
set in concrete
If a plan is set in concrete, it is fixed and cannot be changed. With expenditure plans now set in concrete for three years, slower growth would mean higher taxes. Note: You can also say that a plan is cast in concrete. But the sale conditions must be cast in concrete.