a guiding star

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'a guiding star' is correct and usable in written English.
It is generally used to describe someone or something that provides guidance or inspiration. For example: My grandmother was a guiding star for me throughout my life.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

"A guiding star?" "Perfect!" It's a pity that "The Ghost" can't continue in this entertaining vein.

The New York Times - Books

To the extent that Mr. Shorter haunts this band, it's as a guiding star rather than as a road map.

The New York Times - Arts

FERRARO--Geraldine A. A dear friend, founding member and a guiding star of our organization since 1980.

The New York Times

Its suggestions of happiness, though unworkable from day to day, could be a guiding star and a goad to excellence.

The Guardian - Film

But already becalmed and without a guiding star, Australia under Ms. Gillard or Mr. Abbott will simply be left by its neighbors to drift.

The New York Times

In Stuttgart, you'll find the three-pointed Mercedes-Benz logo, spinning atop the main train station and illuminated at night like a guiding star.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

Magi, singular Magus, also called Wise Men, in Christian tradition, the noble pilgrims "from the East" who followed a miraculous guiding star to Bethlehem, where they paid homage to the infant Jesus as king of the Jews (Matthew 2 1 12).

Encyclopedia Britannica

He played like a shining guiding star, always pulling listeners forward.

Huffington Post

The other main topic we cover in The WorldPost this week is the emergence of a new guiding star on Europe's horizon, French President Emmanuel Macron.

Huffington Post

(And the team makes frequent reference to said cartoon, using it as a sort of guiding star).

Vice

Ms. Bayrakdarian brings a combination of earthy vocal power and subtle expressive shadings to songs like "J'Attends un Navire" and "Youkali," a bitter ode to the guiding star that has deserted her.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a guiding star" to metaphorically describe someone or something that offers consistent direction or inspiration, especially in complex or challenging situations.

Common error

Avoid using "a guiding star" in literal contexts where a simple description of a star would suffice. This phrase is most effective as a metaphor.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a guiding star" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or an appositive. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used to describe something or someone that provides direction or inspiration.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

46%

Science

25%

Encyclopedias

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a guiding star" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to describe something or someone that provides consistent direction, inspiration, or leadership. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's generally used in a metaphorical sense. Predominantly found in news and media, it adds an aspirational tone when describing influences. To best utilize this phrase, remember to employ it metaphorically and avoid literal applications. It offers a valuable way to express admiration and acknowledge pivotal influences in various contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a guiding influence

Highlights the power to affect someone’s choices or actions.

a north star

Emphasizes providing constant direction and purpose.

a leading light

Suggests prominent leadership and influence.

a source of inspiration

Highlights the provision of creative or motivational stimuli.

a polestar

An archaic alternative to 'north star', with similar connotations.

a lodestar

Similar to 'north star' or 'polestar', also indicating a source of constant guidance.

a role model

Focuses on exemplary behavior as a guide for others.

a moral compass

Indicates guidance based on ethical principles.

a beacon of hope

Emphasizes inspiration and optimism during difficult times.

a mentor

Suggests personal guidance and support from an experienced individual.

FAQs

How can I use "a guiding star" in a sentence?

You can use "a guiding star" to describe someone or something that provides direction, inspiration, or leadership. For example, "Her mentor was "a guiding star" during her early career."

What are some alternatives to "a guiding star"?

Some alternatives to "a guiding star" include "a beacon of hope", "a leading light", or "a moral compass" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "a guiding star" an appropriate phrase to use in formal writing?

Yes, "a guiding star" is appropriate for formal writing, especially when used metaphorically to describe someone or something that provides significant guidance or inspiration. It adds a touch of elegance and depth to your prose.

What's the difference between "a guiding star" and "a role model"?

"A guiding star" typically suggests a more distant or aspirational source of guidance, while "a role model" implies a more direct and personal example to follow. A role model's actions and behaviors are directly emulated, whereas a guiding star provides a more general sense of direction.