a backbone of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a backbone of" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to describe something that provides support or strength for a larger or more important entity. For example, you could use the sentence "Investing in renewable energy sources is a backbone of a sustainable future."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

This gives it a backbone of flavor.

The New York Times

"Behind that smile, Tim also has a backbone of steel.

The New York Times

But teachers' unions, a backbone of the party, have fought them, partly because most operate nonunion.

The New York Times

It's like being in "Mr. Rogers Neighborhoodd," except he has a backbone of steel.

The New York Times

Vang's forces grew to almost 40,000 and provided a backbone of resistance against the Communists.

Independent

Britain has been America's most reliable military ally and a backbone of NATO.

The New York Times

The menu maintains a backbone of classics throughout the year, as well as an ample infusion of seasonal dishes.

The New York Times - Food

Together, the two tribes were at the forefront of Indian-controlled gambling, a backbone of the Native American economy today.

The New York Times

And yet they and thousands like them are laboriously making the Internet a backbone of the national economy.

The New York Times

It was one of many public agencies to see the need for a backbone of fibre that everyone can access.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

In cases where a species tree is provided, Algorithm 2 uses it as a backbone of the network.

BMC Evolutionary Biology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a backbone of" to highlight the most crucial elements or supporting structures within a complex system or idea. This phrase adds emphasis to the indispensable nature of the component you're describing.

Common error

Avoid using "a backbone of" to describe something that is merely helpful or beneficial, rather than absolutely essential. Overusing the phrase dilutes its impact and diminishes its significance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a backbone of" functions as a noun phrase that identifies a crucial supporting element or foundation. As evidenced by Ludwig's examples, it highlights something essential for the stability and functionality of a larger entity.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

35%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a backbone of" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to emphasize the essential supporting role of something. Ludwig's AI confirms its correct usage, and the examples demonstrate its prevalence across diverse sources, including news, science, and encyclopedias. While versatile, it is best used to describe truly indispensable elements, avoiding overuse in trivial contexts. Consider alternatives like ""a foundation of"" or ""a cornerstone of"" to tailor the nuance to the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a foundation of

Replaces 'backbone' with 'foundation', emphasizing the underlying support.

a cornerstone of

Substitutes 'backbone' with 'cornerstone', highlighting the fundamental and indispensable nature.

an essential element of

Replaces the entire phrase with a more descriptive term, focusing on the essentiality of the element.

a key component of

Focuses on the importance of the component within a larger system.

a central pillar of

Highlights the supporting and central role, using 'pillar' as a metaphor.

a vital part of

Emphasizes the life-giving or critical aspect of the element.

a core aspect of

Focuses on the central and fundamental nature of the aspect.

a fundamental principle of

Highlights that the query is a core belief of a system.

a supporting structure of

Replaces 'backbone' with a more literal term, focusing on structural support.

a mainspring of

Like the main spring of a watch the query is the motivation behind something.

FAQs

How can I use "a backbone of" in a sentence?

You can use "a backbone of" to describe something that provides essential support or strength to a system or organization. For example, "Skilled labor is "a backbone of" the manufacturing industry."

What are some alternatives to using "a backbone of"?

Alternatives include "a foundation of", "a cornerstone of", or "an essential element of", depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is "a backbone of" formal or informal?

"A backbone of" is suitable for both formal and informal writing, though it appears more frequently in neutral and professional contexts. Its appropriateness depends on the overall tone and audience.

What does it mean when something is described as "a backbone of" something else?

When something is described as "a backbone of" something else, it means that it is a critical supporting element, providing structure, strength, and stability. Without it, the larger entity would likely fail or be significantly weakened.