backbone

USAGE SUMMARY

"backbone" is a correct and usable word in written English.
You can use it to refer to mental or physical strength or resilience. For example, "She showed a lot of backbone during the difficult times."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Well, there's more in common with the physiology of jellyfish and the "bloom" of school leaders than you might think: both of them are utterly devoid of a backbone.

The Guardian

asliceofbrooklyn.com Street art may make up the backbone of the Paris Space Invaders family tour, but it's not the subject of it.

The Guardian - Travel

But silence offers shareholders no clues on whether Jenkins has discovered his backbone on bonuses.

The Guardian - Business

Guts, sinew, spleen, backbone, heart: frankly, given their depleted physique it is a miracle England's players can even drag themselves off the team bus.

The Guardian - Sport

His backbone was his defining characteristic, Harris said.

The Guardian

The rapper and his reps allegedly "tried to get away with not paying" for Aphex's track Avril 14th, which forms the musical backbone of West's song Blame Game.

The Guardian - Music

"We as a journalistic organisation are underpinned by integrity, we're underpinned by balance and no matter where we are reporting from that is the backbone of what we do and that will remain unchanged," he said.

The Guardian

In recalling a brace of 35-year-olds, Brad Haddin – not just as first-choice keeper but vice-captain – and the Middlesex captain, Chris Rogers, who has a single Test appearance on which to draw, John Inverarity and colleagues have tried to put some backbone into an animal that appeared invertebrate.

The Guardian - Sport

According to Felgenhauer, the decision is mainly based on the need to send home the one-year conscripts that form the backbone of the Russian army and focus energies on drawing up this year's class.

The Guardian

The aim is to raise the EU's profile and cement alliances by winning new pledges for greenhouse gas cuts – intended nationally determined contributions (INDCs) in UN jargon, the backbone of any deal in Paris – before June at the latest.

The Guardian

It had same atmosphere as the place I was brought up in.' Despite a cortege-paced narrative, Looking After Jo Jo has enough wit and moral backbone to take its place alongside other recent gems in Scottish drama.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using synonyms like "mainstay", "foundation", or "strength of character" to add nuance to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "backbone" when a more precise term would better convey the intended meaning. For example, instead of saying "teamwork is the backbone of our success", consider "teamwork is fundamental to our success."

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "backbone" is as a noun. It refers either to the physical spinal column or, metaphorically, to the core strength, support, or defining characteristic of something, as shown in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Formal & Business

29%

Science

15%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Academia

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "backbone" is a versatile term primarily used as a noun to denote either the spinal column or, metaphorically, the fundamental support or strength of something. As Ludwig AI confirms, its grammatical correctness and usability are beyond question. It's a very common word, with frequent appearances in diverse contexts, including news, business, and scientific articles, as demonstrated by Ludwig's examples. When writing, be sure to clarify the intended meaning, whether it is about the physical spinal structure or the metaphorical essence of strength or support. Consider alternatives like "mainstay" or "foundation" for variety. Remembering this advice will help writers use "backbone" effectively in their work.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

spinal column

Focuses specifically on the anatomical definition, emphasizing the physical structure.

mainstay

Highlights the role of something being a crucial and reliable support.

foundation

Emphasizes the underlying structure or basis upon which something is built.

central component

Highlights the role of something being an essential part of a larger whole.

essential element

Emphasizes the importance of something as a necessary part of something else.

strength of character

Shifts the focus to the metaphorical meaning of inner fortitude and moral fiber.

moral fiber

Emphasizes the ethical aspect of having "backbone", or strength of character.

key ingredient

Highlights the crucial role of something in achieving a desired outcome.

guts

Implies courage and determination in the face of adversity.

grit

Highlights the resilience and perseverance needed to overcome challenges.

FAQs

How can I use "backbone" in a sentence?

You can use "backbone" to refer to the spinal column, as in "The backbone protects the spinal cord". Metaphorically, it can refer to strength or support, as in "Honesty is the backbone of any good relationship".

What are some synonyms for "backbone" when referring to strength of character?

Alternatives include "courage", "grit", "fortitude", or "determination". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it correct to say someone lacks "backbone"?

Yes, it's a common idiom to say someone lacks "backbone" to indicate they are spineless, indecisive, or lack the "courage" to stand up for their beliefs.

What does it mean when something is described as the "backbone" of something else?

It means that it's the essential supporting structure or "foundation". For example, "Small businesses are often described as the backbone of the economy", indicating they are vital to its functioning.