a bedrock of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a bedrock of" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe a fundamental principle or basis upon which something is built or established. Example: "Trust is a bedrock of any successful relationship."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Gorer found marriage a bedrock of society.

The Economist

What's more, preening is practically a bedrock of gym culture.

The New York Times

ties, has undoubtedly been a bedrock of the thriving association.

The New York Times

Competition is a bedrock of our American way of life.

The New York Times

Banks' solvency depends on a bedrock of capital.

The Economist

Such sweeping generalisations are a bedrock of anti-cycling pieces.

The Guardian

His movement language is a bedrock of classical modern dance.

The New York Times - Arts

Dreams of adventure still require a bedrock of possession.

The Guardian - Sport

Indeed, the issue has become a bedrock of his message.

The New York Times

The country rests on a bedrock of unforced character and a sense of self.

Independent

His "Ain't Ain't Ain't" (ANTI-) is scattershot, but has a bedrock of real, confessional narratives.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a bedrock of" to emphasize the foundational and indispensable nature of something. For example, "Trust is a bedrock of any healthy relationship."

Common error

Avoid using "a bedrock of" in contexts where a simpler phrase like "basis" or "foundation" would suffice. Overusing the phrase can make your writing sound unnecessarily complex or pretentious.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a bedrock of" functions as a noun phrase modifier, typically followed by another noun. It signifies that the modified noun is a fundamental or essential element. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

88%

Formal & Business

6%

Science

6%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a bedrock of" is a versatile and frequently used phrase that signifies a fundamental or essential element. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct. It is commonly found in news and media, as well as in formal and business contexts. When writing, use "a bedrock of" to emphasize the foundational importance of a concept, but avoid overuse to maintain clarity and impact. Alternatives such as ""a foundation of"" or ""a cornerstone of"" can be used to provide variety while conveying a similar meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a foundation of

Indicates a basic principle or element on which something stands. Changes the imagery from geology to architecture.

a cornerstone of

Suggests a critical and indispensable component. Like "foundation", it borrows from architecture.

a basis of

Emphasizes the underlying reason or justification for something. More abstract than "bedrock".

a fundamental of

Highlights an essential skill or knowledge. Focuses on the inherent nature of something.

an essential of

Similar to 'a fundamental of', it focuses on necessity and indispensability.

a mainstay of

Implies long-term support and reliability. Focuses on enduring importance.

a keystone of

Highlights the central supporting element. Similar to cornerstone but emphasizes locking other parts together.

a linchpin of

Suggests something that holds other elements together, preventing collapse. Conveys a sense of cruciality and integration.

a pillar of

Implies strength and support, like a column holding up a structure. Can imply something prominent or well-known.

a core of

Highlights the most important or essential part. Implies centrality and inseparability.

FAQs

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

Use "a bedrock of" to describe something fundamental or essential. For example, "Mutual respect is "a bedrock of" any successful partnership."

What phrases are similar to "a bedrock of"?

Alternatives include "a foundation of", "a cornerstone of", or "a basis of", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say 'the bedrock of' instead of "a bedrock of"?

While grammatically correct, "the bedrock of" implies a unique or specific foundation, whereas "a bedrock of" suggests one of many possible foundations. Choose the phrasing that best fits the context.

What is the difference between "a bedrock of" and "the foundation of"?

"A bedrock of" typically implies a more inherent or deeply rooted foundation, while "the foundation of" can refer to a more constructed or established base. The best choice depends on the specific context.