cornerstone of civilization

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cornerstone of civilization" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a fundamental principle or element that is essential for the development and stability of a society or culture. Example: "Education is often considered the cornerstone of civilization, as it fosters knowledge and critical thinking among individuals."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

America hasn't quite grocked the idea that civilization is desirable; that culture is the cornerstone of civilization, and that a thriving culture supports unfettered — read: occasionally offensive — art.

The New York Times

In his blog, "The Gospel in the Digital Age," Dolan invokes not just God but Orwell, denouncing the "perilous presumption of the state" in reinventing the definition of marriage, which, he says, "has served as the very cornerstone of civilization and culture from the start".

The New York Times

In fact, many readers have criticized me for "promoting lying," because I believe in going out of your way to protect someone else's feelings, and that certain small acts of prevarication are the cornerstone of civilization.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

It's the cornerstone of a civilization.

The New York Times

If this sounds familiar, it's because that reasoning has been the cornerstone of modern civilization.

The Guardian - Opinion

There are few insights into human behavior found in religion that cannot also be found in the great writings of Plato, Machiavelli, Locke, Hume, Kant and Mill (to name a few), which are as much a cornerstone of our civilization as our religions.

The New York Times

In this stunning, elliptical play about a father's experiment with genetic engineering, this invaluable dramatist considers a threat to the very cornerstone of Western civilization since the Renaissance: the idea of human individuality, a subject she manages to probe in depth in a mere 62 minutes of spartan sentences and silences.

The New York Times

A cornerstone of American civilization is the idea that the law should protect the weakest of us, not just the strong and the rich.

Forbes

It is, after all, one of the cornerstones of world civilization.

The New York Times

It is the cornerstone of youth culture.

Vice

Music is the cornerstone of human culture.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "cornerstone of civilization", ensure the context clearly establishes what aspects of civilization are being supported or upheld. For example, "Education is a cornerstone of civilization, fostering critical thinking and innovation."

Common error

Avoid using "cornerstone of civilization" in overly general or abstract statements without specific examples. Vague claims weaken the phrase's impact. Instead of saying 'Technology is the cornerstone of civilization', specify which technological advancements and how they contribute to societal progress.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cornerstone of civilization" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or appositive. Ludwig AI examples show it identifying key elements that are fundamental to a society's structure and progress.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "cornerstone of civilization" is a noun phrase used to emphasize the fundamental importance of an element to society's progress and stability. According to Ludwig AI, its usage is grammatically correct and appears most frequently in news and media contexts. When using this phrase, clarity and specificity are key to ensure its impact. Considering alternatives like "foundation of society" or "bedrock of culture" can also refine your message. Overall, the phrase remains a potent way to highlight essential components of a thriving society.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

foundation of society

Emphasizes the underlying support system of a community, focusing on the basic structures that enable it to function.

bedrock of culture

Highlights the essential and unchanging principles upon which a culture is built, suggesting a deep-rooted significance.

essential element of societal progress

Focuses on the contribution of the element to advancement and development within a community.

fundamental principle of a cultured society

Stresses the core values that guide interactions and behaviors within a sophisticated community.

linchpin of civilized life

Implies that it is what connects everything together in order for civilized life to function.

keystone of societal harmony

The keystone is what keeps an arch together, in this case is what keeps society working smoothly and cohesively.

building block of societal structure

Highlights its structural role in creating and maintaining a community's organizational framework.

critical institution for advanced cultures

Shifts the focus to a specific type of establishment that's necessary for developed societies.

indispensable facet of community development

Emphasizes how essential it is to the growth and improvement within a community.

integral component of a thriving civilization

Emphasizes its role as a necessary and vital part of a successful society.

FAQs

How can I use "cornerstone of civilization" in a sentence?

Use "cornerstone of civilization" to emphasize a fundamental aspect or institution essential for a developed society. For example, "The rule of law is a cornerstone of civilization, ensuring fairness and order".

What's a synonym for "cornerstone of civilization"?

Alternatives to "cornerstone of civilization" include "foundation of society", "bedrock of culture", or "essential element of societal progress". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What makes something a "cornerstone of civilization"?

A "cornerstone of civilization" is a foundational element that supports and enables the stability, progress, and ethical development of a society. It often includes institutions, principles, or cultural practices deemed essential for maintaining order and fostering growth.

Is it correct to say "corner stone of civilization" (two words)?

The correct spelling is "cornerstone of civilization" (one word). "Corner stone" as two words has a different meaning referring to a physical stone at the corner of a building and not an abstract foundational element.