a theoretical cornerstone

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a theoretical cornerstone" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a fundamental concept or principle that serves as a basis for a theory or field of study. Example: "In the realm of physics, the concept of energy conservation is considered a theoretical cornerstone that underpins many scientific theories."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

Encyclopedias

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Some important theories concerning possible objects and related issues do not invoke possible worlds as a theoretical cornerstone.

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Hence, this report provides an experimental and theoretical cornerstone for future diagnosis and therapy by targeting Uev1A for the cure of breast cancer.

Breast Cancer Research

Population genetics is intimately bound up with the study of evolution and natural selection, and is often regarded as the theoretical cornerstone of modern Darwinism.

SEP

These observations provide the experimental and theoretical cornerstone for therapeutic targeting of Uev1A in the treatment of metastatic breast cancers.

Breast Cancer Research

Such adaptability was among the theoretical cornerstones of the Metabolist school, which confronted design problems posed by a growing populace and limited urban space.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The fetuses at risk formulation also provides a theoretical justification for medically indicated early delivery, the cornerstone of modern obstetrics.

BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth

But only a theoretical family.

The New York Times - Magazine

Oppenheimer was a theoretical physicist.

The Guardian - Books

I asked a theoretical question.

The Guardian - Opinion

"It's a theoretical benefit".

The New York Times

"That's a theoretical question," he said.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a theoretical cornerstone", ensure the context clearly establishes the specific theory or concept being referenced, providing a solid basis for your argument.

Common error

Avoid using "a theoretical cornerstone" loosely. It should only apply when referring to a genuinely foundational principle, not just any idea related to a theory.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a theoretical cornerstone" functions as a noun phrase, where "theoretical" modifies "cornerstone". Ludwig AI confirms its correctness, indicating that it is a valid and meaningful construction in English. It denotes a fundamental concept or principle that forms the foundation of a theoretical framework.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

50%

Encyclopedias

25%

News & Media

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a theoretical cornerstone" is a grammatically sound phrase used to denote a fundamental concept underpinning a theory. Ludwig AI validates its correctness. While relatively rare in overall usage, it appears most frequently in scientific and academic contexts. When using the phrase, ensure clarity in defining the specific theory it supports. Related phrases include "foundational principle" and "underlying theory". Be mindful of overusing the term in less formal contexts where simpler alternatives may be more appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Theoretical foundation

A more direct synonym, swapping the position of 'theoretical' and 'foundation'.

Foundational principle

Replaces 'theoretical' with 'foundational', emphasizing the basis or foundation.

Fundamental concept

Substitutes 'cornerstone' with 'concept', highlighting the basic idea.

Underlying theory

Focuses on the idea that it supports or lies beneath something else.

Basic tenet

Replaces 'cornerstone' with 'tenet', a principle or belief held as true.

Essential framework

Highlights the structure aspect of the theory.

Core principle

Emphasizes the central and most important aspect.

Conceptual basis

Focuses on the ideas and concepts as the foundation.

Central hypothesis

Highlights the hypothetical nature and centrality.

Guiding principle

Highlights that the tenet is what guides the theory

FAQs

How can I use "a theoretical cornerstone" in a sentence?

Use "a theoretical cornerstone" to describe a fundamental concept upon which a larger theory or framework is built. For example, "The principle of natural selection is "a theoretical cornerstone" of modern evolutionary biology."

What's the difference between "a theoretical cornerstone" and "a foundational theory"?

"A theoretical cornerstone" emphasizes the essential nature of a specific concept within a larger theory, whereas "a foundational theory" refers to an entire theory that serves as the basis for further developments. The former is a component, the latter is the whole structure.

What can I say instead of "a theoretical cornerstone"?

You can use alternatives like "foundational principle", "fundamental concept", or "underlying theory" depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "a theoretical cornerstone" in informal writing?

While grammatically correct, "a theoretical cornerstone" is more suited to formal or academic writing. In informal contexts, consider using simpler terms like "basic idea" or "key concept".