a pillar of support

USAGE SUMMARY

'a pillar of support' is a perfectly correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you want to refer to someone (or something) who is reliable and helpful, usually during a difficult situation. For example, "My parents have been a pillar of support throughout my college studies."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

Her marriage was a pillar of support for her in her later years.

The New York Times

"She was very much a pillar of support, spiritually and in every other way.

The New York Times

"You have been a pillar of support thro life," Jefferson wrote to Madison.

The New York Times - Arts

She captured the essence of elegance and was a pillar of support for the Hospital.

The New York Times

His uncompromising views on Cuba have made him a pillar of support for the four-decades-old American trade embargo.

The New York Times

But the general is from the same village as the president and has mostly been a pillar of support for Mr. Saleh.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

33 human-written examples

African Americans have long been a pillar of Democratic support, powering candidates from John F. Kennedy to Barack Obama.

The Washington Post

Mrs. Craig, wearing a television-friendly red sweater set, was a pillar of unconditional support, but she, too, inadvertently suggested that Mr. Craig's version of events seemed implausible.

The New York Times

The vouchers, known as Section 8 vouchers, long a pillar of rent support for needy families, serve about 270,000 city residents.

The New York Times

The group has also put together a deceptive digital ad made to look like a cable television news report that portrays Mr. Lamb as reaching a "boiling point" with the labor unions, a pillar of his support.

The New York Times

ISTANBUL — Iranian authorities confronted widening, at-times violent, street protests Tuesday centered in the country's provinces, which have traditionally been a pillar of government support and prime recruiting ground for security forces.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a group or organization, consider using "a pillar of" followed by the type of support they provide (e.g. "a pillar of community support").

Common error

Avoid using "a pillar of support" to describe fleeting or temporary assistance. This phrase implies sustained and significant support.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a pillar of support" functions as a noun phrase, often used as a subject complement or object of a preposition. It describes someone or something that provides consistent and reliable assistance, as shown in the examples provided by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Formal & Business

15%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Science & Research

2%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a pillar of support" is a common noun phrase used to describe someone or something that provides consistent and reliable assistance, strength, and stability, especially during difficult times. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and wide applicability across various contexts, including news, business, and informal communications. When writing, remember that this phrase implies sustained and significant support, and consider related alternatives like "a source of strength" or "a solid foundation" to fine-tune your message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a source of strength

Focuses on the strength provided, rather than stability.

a constant companion

Emphasizes unwavering presence and emotional backup.

a solid foundation

Highlights the aspect of providing a stable base.

a reliable ally

Stresses the dependability and partnership aspect.

a steadfast friend

Underscores loyalty and unwavering friendship.

a great comfort

Highlights the relief and ease provided.

a true anchor

Highlights the aspect of stability and security during difficult times.

a shoulder to lean on

Focuses on providing emotional support and empathy.

a guiding light

Highlights the aspect of guidance and direction.

a rock

Implies solidity, dependability and strength.

FAQs

How can I use "a pillar of support" in a sentence?

You can use "a pillar of support" to describe someone or something that provides consistent and reliable help. For example, "My family was "a pillar of support" during my illness".

What can I say instead of "a pillar of support"?

Alternatives include "a source of strength", "a solid foundation", or "a steadfast friend", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "a pillar of support" in formal writing?

Yes, "a pillar of support" is appropriate for both formal and informal writing. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread usage across various source types.

What's the difference between "a source of support" and "a pillar of support"?

"A pillar of support" implies a stronger, more stable, and more enduring form of assistance than "a source of support". A pillar suggests a foundational and unwavering presence.