a key pillar

USAGE SUMMARY

"a key pillar" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you need to emphasize that something is an important support for a structure or system. For example, "Education is a key pillar of our nation's successful development."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Transport was always a key pillar of the powerhouse project.

The Guardian - Opinion

Philip will remain a key pillar for FC Bayern.

The Guardian - Sport

Renewable energies are a key pillar of power sector decarbonisation.

Energy

Exporting was a key pillar of my business, Tangle Teezer, from the word go.

The Guardian

Recognize that consciously setting priorities is a key pillar of success.

Harvard Business Review

A key pillar, Martin said, is "diversity" in the supplier market.

The Washington Post

Crises abroad are often contrasted with positive domestic news, a key pillar of China's propaganda machine.

The Guardian

Kenya said the abductions threatened tourism, a key pillar of the economy.

The Washington Post

Manufacturing has been identified as a key pillar of growth in many Southeast Asian (ASEAN) economies.

Robotics and Computer-Integrated Manufacturing

Improving energy efficiency is seen as a key pillar in transforming the energy system.

Energy Procedia

The Egyptian military, with its key controlling stake in the economy, was always a key pillar of Mubarakism.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Combine "a key pillar" with precise language to avoid ambiguity. For instance, specify "a key pillar of our marketing strategy" rather than just "a key pillar."

Common error

Avoid using "a key pillar" too generically. If the 'pillar' has no discernible connection to a real-world structure or system, the phrase loses its metaphorical power and becomes cliché.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a key pillar" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or an appositive. It identifies an essential component that provides support or stability to a larger entity, concept, or system. Ludwig confirms this usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a key pillar" is a common phrase used to highlight an essential and supportive element within a larger system or structure. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and widely used. It functions primarily as a noun phrase, emphasizing importance across various contexts such as News & Media, Science and Business. To ensure effective use, be specific about what the 'pillar' supports and avoid overuse in abstract contexts. Alternatives like "a cornerstone" or "a fundamental element" can add nuance. Remember that, although this phrase is widely accepted, it is more appropriate to use it in a formal setting.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a cornerstone

Replaces 'pillar' with 'cornerstone', suggesting foundational importance.

a fundamental element

Replaces 'key pillar' with a more descriptive phrase emphasizing the element's importance.

a critical component

Substitutes 'pillar' with 'component', focusing on the functional role.

a vital aspect

Replaces the metaphor of a pillar with the direct term 'aspect', highlighting significance.

an essential part

Simplifies the phrase to emphasize the necessity of the element.

a crucial factor

Focuses on the role of the element as a determinant of success or outcome.

a central tenet

Emphasizes the importance of the element as a guiding principle or belief.

an integral part

Highlights that the element is necessary to complete the whole.

a major building block

Uses a more literal construction metaphor, referring to an essential element.

a primary foundation

Highlights that the element is a base which everything else is built.

FAQs

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

Use "a key pillar" to emphasize something that provides crucial support to an entity or idea. For example, "Innovation is "a key pillar" of our business strategy".

What are some alternatives to "a key pillar"?

Alternatives include "a cornerstone", "a fundamental element", or "a critical component" depending on the specific context.

In what contexts is "a key pillar" most appropriate?

"A key pillar" is suitable in formal and professional settings where you want to highlight the importance of something. It is often used in business, politics, and academia.

Is "a key pillar" an overused phrase?

While "a key pillar" is a common phrase, its effectiveness depends on the context. Avoid overuse by considering more specific alternatives if the metaphorical connection to a structural support is weak or unclear.