a fundamental pillar

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a fundamental pillar" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is essential or foundational to a concept, system, or structure. Example: "Education is a fundamental pillar of a thriving society, as it empowers individuals and fosters economic growth."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

It is a fundamental pillar of democracy.

The Washington Post

For Germany, the trans-Atlantic relationship remains a "fundamental pillar" of its foreign policy, he said.

The New York Times

But it's a fundamental pillar of democracy, I say, to have a police force that you can trust… "Apparently, yes.

The Guardian

"Spain will be a fundamental pillar of the relationship between Gibraltar and the EU as a whole.

The Guardian

We're doing so because a fundamental pillar of democracy is at stake: the free exchange of knowledge and ideas.

The New York Times

But Iris Varela, the prisons minister, tweeted gleefully that the opposition was "shit-scared" of the colectivos, calling them a "fundamental pillar in the defence of the homeland".

The Economist

Cheap gas is a fundamental pillar of the government's populist policies, says Peter Kreko of Political Capital, a Budapest think-tank.

The Economist

The peace agreement is increasingly fragile, with Kiir undermining a fundamental pillar of its power-sharing clauses by nearly tripling the number of regional states.

The Guardian

He said the banks were a "fundamental pillar" of society that operated under a "social licence" of public trust and confidence.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

It's a well-established, fundamental pillar of society and no group, be they gays, be they NAMBLA, be they people who believe in bestiality.

The New Yorker

Carson said last year that marriage is "a well-established, fundamental pillar of society and no group, be they gays, be they NAMBLA, be they people who believe in bestiality -- it doesn't matter what they are, they don't get to change the definition".

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a fundamental pillar", ensure it's followed by a 'of' phrase that specifies what it supports, providing clarity and context to its role. For example, "a fundamental pillar of democracy".

Common error

While "a fundamental pillar" is appropriate in many contexts, avoid overusing it in less formal writing. Opt for simpler terms like "key part" or "essential element" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a fundamental pillar" functions as a noun phrase that identifies a core component or principle that supports a larger system or concept. Ludwig AI suggests it indicates something essential and foundational.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

51%

Science

22%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Academia

4%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a fundamental pillar" is a widely used phrase to denote an essential component supporting a larger structure or concept. Ludwig's analysis of numerous examples confirms its grammatical correctness and appropriateness across diverse contexts, especially in News & Media. While versatile, it is advisable to use it carefully in informal settings to avoid sounding overly formal. Alternative phrases like "a cornerstone principle" or "a key element" can provide stylistic variety. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is often employed to emphasize importance and necessity, making it valuable for clear and impactful communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a cornerstone principle

Replaces "pillar" with "principle" focusing on the foundational nature of the element.

a basic tenet

Substitutes "fundamental pillar" with "basic tenet", highlighting the core belief or principle.

an essential foundation

Uses "essential foundation" to emphasize the basic groundwork or support.

a key element

Replaces "pillar" with "element" for a broader, less architectural metaphor.

a core component

Emphasizes the role of being a vital part of a larger system.

a central aspect

Highlights the importance of being a focal point or key feature.

a vital ingredient

Uses the metaphor of an ingredient, emphasizing necessity.

an integral part

Focuses on the completeness that this element brings to the whole.

a building block

Metaphorically represents something that contributes to the construction of the whole.

a critical factor

Highlights the importance of being a decisive element.

FAQs

How can I use "a fundamental pillar" in a sentence?

Use "a fundamental pillar" to describe something essential or foundational to a system or concept. For example, "Free speech is "a fundamental pillar" of a democratic society".

What phrases are similar to "a fundamental pillar"?

Alternatives include "a cornerstone principle", "a basic tenet", or "an essential foundation", each conveying a similar sense of importance and fundamentality.

Is it better to use "fundamental" or "foundational" with pillar?

Both "fundamental" and "foundational" work well with "pillar". "Fundamental" emphasizes the essential nature, while "foundational" emphasizes the supportive role. The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What does it mean for something to be described as "a fundamental pillar"?

Describing something as "a fundamental pillar" means it's an indispensable part that provides essential support, structure, or strength to a larger concept, system, or organization.