a set of pillars

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a set of pillars" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a collection or group of supporting structures, either literally or metaphorically, such as principles or concepts. Example: "The company's success is built on a set of pillars that include innovation, customer service, and sustainability."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

Then, near Wingate Park, was a set of pillars with something between them.

The New Yorker

His first foray is relatively harmless: two carved urns, which he is hauling up on a set of pillars when Miss Emily appears in the moonlight.

The New York Times - Style

All the speculation about the slab of granite crashing through the floor of the Alabama Supreme Court or being too heavy to budge vanished as the moving crew pushed it past a set of pillars and out of public view, as federal courts have demanded.

The New York Times

It can be destroyed when characters hit a set of pillars, but it can rebuild itself later on.

Wikipedia

One of the most shocking insights came from self-proclaimed Flat expert Darren Nesbit, who hypothesized that the planet is standing on a set of pillars (supported by what, who knows), and that it's actually shaped like a diamond.

Vice

The local traction forces analyzed in Fig. 1C are calculated by summation of a set of pillars that are perpendicular to the migrating cell axis.

Biology Open

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

A set of granite pillars would surround the pool, with arches at the eastern and western ends symbolizing the Atlantic and Pacific theaters of the war.

The New York Times - Travel

Some first aid has been administered to this terminally ill patient: a set of ancient pillars that support the palazzo have been reinforced with iron bars, and part of the building is wired with sensory devices that are meant to warn of a disastrous collapse.

The New York Times - Magazine

It was also positioned on a set of natural basalt pillars, which - although inconvenient to build upon - would have enhanced its dramatic appearance and reflection in the meres.

Wikipedia

The most appropriate model for each teaching and learning strategy, including a set of the three main pillars, is then identified for each design phase.

Frontiers of Architectural Research

Leveraging these pillars to create a set of customer journeys, which is a pillar that I am bringing to the team.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a set of pillars" metaphorically, ensure the context clearly establishes the supporting or foundational role of the mentioned elements.

Common error

Avoid using "a set of pillars" too frequently in your writing, as it can become repetitive. Vary your language by using synonyms or rephrasing the concept to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a set of pillars" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It typically refers to a group of structural supports or, metaphorically, to the foundational principles or elements of something, as validated by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

10%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a set of pillars" is a grammatically correct noun phrase, often used to describe structural supports or, metaphorically, foundational principles. As indicated by Ludwig, it functions to identify a group of vertical supports and emphasize the importance of fundamental elements. While examples are relatively uncommon, the phrase finds usage across diverse contexts, including news, science, and general knowledge. To enhance writing, remember to maintain clarity when employing the metaphor and avoid overuse. Alternatives like "a collection of columns" or "core principles" can provide variation. The phrase is considered appropriate for a wide range of registers, from formal to informal, due to the high consistency and neutral application. Therefore, understanding its multiple functions and communicative purposes will ensure its proper employment in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a collection of columns

Replaces "pillars" with "columns", focusing on the structural aspect.

a group of supports

Uses more general terms, shifting the emphasis from specific architectural elements to general structural supports.

a series of foundations

Emphasizes the foundational nature of the pillars.

the core principles

Metaphorically interprets the pillars as fundamental guiding principles.

the essential elements

Highlights the crucial components that form a base.

the basic tenets

Emphasizes fundamental doctrines or beliefs, similar to pillars holding up a system of thought.

supporting framework

Focuses on the supportive role the pillars provide.

structural components

Highlights components within a building or bridge, etc.

the load-bearing structure

Specifies the structure that distributes weight.

fundamental infrastructure

Describes the basic systems and facilities that support the underlying structure.

FAQs

How can I use "a set of pillars" in a sentence?

You can use "a set of pillars" to describe physical structures or metaphorical foundations, such as "The building was supported by "a set of pillars"" or "The company's success relies on "a set of pillars": innovation, quality and customer satisfaction".

What are some alternatives to "a set of pillars"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "a collection of columns", "a group of supports", or "core principles".

Is it correct to use "a set of pillars" metaphorically?

Yes, it is perfectly acceptable to use "a set of pillars" metaphorically to describe the fundamental elements that support an idea, system, or organization.

What does "a set of pillars" typically represent?

"A set of pillars" typically represents the fundamental components or principles upon which something is built or sustained, either physically or conceptually.