an important cornerstone

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an important cornerstone" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to emphasize the significance of a fundamental element or principle in a particular context, such as a project, theory, or argument. Example: "Education is an important cornerstone of a successful society, shaping the future of its citizens."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

32 human-written examples

In Chicago itself and Memphis itself it is an important cornerstone of the tourist industry.

The Guardian - Music

Dr. Milstein and Dr. Köhler's research on pure antibodies, known as monoclonal antibodies, provided an important cornerstone in molecular biology research.

The New York Times

We profess to being shocked at one or another of these outlandish crimes, but the shock wears off quickly in an environment in which the rape, murder and humiliation of females is not only a staple of the news, but an important cornerstone of the nation's entertainment.

The New York Times

"Intellectual property rights are an important cornerstone of the single market.

TechCrunch

In chronic non-malignant pain, medication is often used as an important cornerstone of the treatment.

International Journal of Nursing Studies

"Encouragingly, our non-match day revenue continues to grow, which is an important cornerstone of our medium-term business plan.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

28 human-written examples

Efficient allocation of resources as well as in-depth market integration make up the important cornerstone in creating a community with shared interests that embodies economic integration and cultural tolerance.

The Journal of Chinese Sociology

Once they got over that, they never stopped laughing, and one small, important cornerstone of the nation's respect for the military was smartly tugged out, leaving the destruction of the edifice itself to the war planners.

The Guardian - Film

Energy in general, and Alberta's oilsands in particular, is the single most important cornerstone of the Canadian economy, bigger than autos, manufacturing, mining, forestry, tourism or financial services.

Huffington Post

Another important cornerstone structuring clinical practice is the increasing number of disorder-specific guidelines for both assessment and treatment of these disorders.

European Child and Adolescent Psychiatry

A substantial increase in energy efficiency and a reduction of residential energy consumption also form important cornerstones of a sustainable energy policy.

Energy Policy

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "an important cornerstone", ensure it clearly represents a foundational element upon which something else depends. This helps to convey the significance of the subject being described.

Common error

Avoid using "an important cornerstone" for overly abstract or intangible concepts where a more specific term would be more effective. Ensure it applies to a concrete or well-defined foundation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an important cornerstone" functions primarily as a noun phrase that identifies a foundational or essential element. Ludwig AI shows its usage in various contexts, emphasizing its role as something indispensable. The phrase modifies a noun, highlighting its significance.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

44%

News & Media

31%

Formal & Business

9%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an important cornerstone" is a phrase used to emphasize the fundamental nature of something. According to Ludwig AI, its use spans various domains, including science, news, and business. While generally considered grammatically correct, it's best employed when describing tangible or well-defined foundations. Remember to consider alternative phrases like "a key foundation" or "a crucial element" for nuanced expression. Avoid overuse in overly abstract contexts, and ensure its application aligns with the intention of highlighting a genuinely indispensable component.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a key foundation

This alternative uses "key" instead of "important", emphasizing the essential nature of the foundation.

a crucial element

This alternative replaces "cornerstone" with "element", highlighting the necessity of the component.

a vital component

This alternative focuses on the life-sustaining nature of the component using "vital".

a significant building block

This alternative emphasizes the constructive role of the element using "building block".

an integral part

This alternative stresses the inseparability of the element from the whole.

a fundamental aspect

This alternative highlights the basic and underlying nature of the aspect.

a central tenet

This alternative is more suitable for principles or beliefs, emphasizing their core position.

a primary principle

This alternative uses "principle" suggesting a guiding rule or belief of utmost importance.

a basic requirement

This alternative frames the element as something indispensable and necessary.

a major factor

This alternative emphasizes the influence and impact of the element.

FAQs

How can I use "an important cornerstone" in a sentence?

Use "an important cornerstone" to highlight something fundamental or essential to a larger structure or concept. For example: "Trust is "an important cornerstone" of any successful relationship."

What are some alternatives to "an important cornerstone"?

Alternatives include "a key foundation", "a crucial element", or "a vital component". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it redundant to say "very important cornerstone"?

While not grammatically incorrect, saying "very important cornerstone" can be redundant. The term "cornerstone" already implies importance, so adding "very" may not add significant value. Consider using a stronger synonym instead, or rephrasing the sentence.

How does "an important cornerstone" differ from "an important pillar"?

While similar, "cornerstone" often suggests a beginning or foundational element, while "pillar" implies a supporting structure that helps maintain stability throughout. A cornerstone is typically laid first, whereas pillars can be added later.