as a cornerstone

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as a cornerstone" is a correct and usable part of a sentence in written English.
You can use the phrase to describe something that is an essential foundation or source of support--the figurative cornerstone of a structure. For example, you could say, "Quality education is a cornerstone of a strong, civil society."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

while continuing to use their systemic approach as a cornerstone.

European Journal of Agronomy

Today '&apos Godot'' is generally accepted as a cornerstone of modern theater.

The New York Times - Books

The Apple legal team seemed to be using this as a cornerstone of their case.

The New York Times

The provision of adequate, reliable, and affordable energy has been considered as a cornerstone of development.

Energy Policy

The project had once been hailed as a cornerstone of a nuclear power renaissance.

The New York Times

Moreover, Merrill is seen as a cornerstone of a strategic push into new markets.

The Economist

Giannis Adetokunbo is seen as a cornerstone of future Greece national teams.

The New York Times - Sports

Today Obama defended "state sovereignty", describing it as "a cornerstone of international order".

The Guardian

Each school project can be planned with community development as a cornerstone.

The New York Times

On its Web site, his Saad Group lists "family values" as a cornerstone of its business.

The New York Times

But Mr. Bush has framed the idea as a cornerstone of his "compassionate conservatism".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "as a cornerstone", ensure the context clearly establishes what is being supported or built upon. Be specific about the relationship to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

While effective, overuse of "as a cornerstone" can make your writing sound repetitive. Vary your language by using synonyms such as "fundamental", "essential", or "key" where appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as a cornerstone" functions as a prepositional phrase that modifies a noun or clause, indicating that something serves as a fundamental basis or essential part. Ludwig confirms its correct usage, supported by numerous examples across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

33%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

4%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "as a cornerstone" is a versatile and widely used expression that highlights the fundamental importance of something. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly found in various formal contexts, particularly in news, scientific, and academic writing. It serves to emphasize that the described element is an essential basis or central component. While synonyms like "as a foundation" or "as a key element" can offer variety, "as a cornerstone" provides a strong, clear assertion of significance. Remember to use it judiciously and ensure the context effectively showcases the relationship to avoid overuse or ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as a foundation

Emphasizes the role of providing a base or support, similar to a literal foundation.

as a key element

Highlights importance, focusing on a component essential for a system's function.

as an essential component

Stresses the necessity of something being part of a larger whole.

as a central principle

Focuses on a guiding belief or idea that underlies a system or approach.

as a vital part

Indicates that something is crucial and necessary for success or survival.

as an integral aspect

Highlights that something is inherently linked and necessary for completeness.

as a fundamental aspect

Emphasizes that something is basic and crucial to the nature of something.

as the basis

Focuses on something that serves as a starting point or main ingredient.

as a primary ingredient

Similar to the previous, focusing on contribution to create something.

as the heart of

Implies the most important or essential part of something.

FAQs

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

Use "as a cornerstone" to describe something fundamental or essential to a larger structure, idea, or system. For instance, "Integrity serves "as a cornerstone" of ethical leadership".

What phrases are similar to "as a cornerstone"?

Alternatives to "as a cornerstone" include "as a foundation", "as a key element", and "as an essential component", each emphasizing the fundamental nature of something.

Is it better to use "cornerstone" or "foundation"?

While both terms are similar, "cornerstone" often implies a more symbolic or ideological role, whereas "foundation" relates more to a literal or structural support. Choose the word that best fits the intended meaning.

Can "as a cornerstone" be used in formal writing?

Yes, "as a cornerstone" is suitable for formal writing across various disciplines, including academic, scientific, and professional contexts. It clearly conveys the importance of the element being described.