cornerstone of democracy

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cornerstone of democracy" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a fundamental principle or element that is essential for the functioning of a democratic system. Example: "Freedom of speech is often considered the cornerstone of democracy, as it allows citizens to express their opinions and hold the government accountable."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

44 human-written examples

That's fine: healthy debate is the cornerstone of democracy.

The Guardian - Opinion

What it represents, she said, is access to information, a cornerstone of democracy.

The New York Times - Tech

This right is a cornerstone of democracy, and a crucial bulwark against state oppression.

Independent

For him the public's right to know is the cornerstone of democracy.

The Guardian

Initiatives should be taken to improve troubled public schools, to strengthen this cornerstone of democracy.

The New York Times

The cornerstone of democracy is a well-informed public engaged in passionate debate.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

16 human-written examples

"These rights are cornerstones of democracy.

The Guardian

My support would have been based on enlightened self-interest, one of the cornerstones of democracy.

The New Yorker

Freedom of speech was a hard won, centuries-old right and remained one of the cornerstones of democracy, Kavanagh added.

The Guardian

The reason this view may be un-American is that it sets itself against one of the cornerstones of democracy — the orderly transfer of power.

The New York Times

We will support the Iraqi people's aspirations for a representative government that upholds human rights and the rule of law as cornerstones of democracy.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "cornerstone of democracy", ensure the context clearly establishes the element being described as fundamental and essential for a well-functioning democracy. For example, specify which element you mean: 'Freedom of speech is a cornerstone of democracy'.

Common error

Avoid using "cornerstone of democracy" as a generic statement without identifying the specific element you are referring to. Overuse without context weakens its impact. Always be precise.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cornerstone of democracy" functions as a noun phrase, acting as a subject complement or appositive to identify a fundamental element or principle that is essential to a democratic system. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Academia

24%

Science

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "cornerstone of democracy" is a commonly used and grammatically correct expression that signifies a fundamental element or principle crucial for a democratic system's operation. Ludwig AI's analysis of numerous sources reveals its presence across varied contexts, most notably in News & Media and Academia. While synonyms like "essential element of democracy" and "fundamental principle of democracy" exist, "cornerstone of democracy" specifically conveys the indispensable and foundational nature of the element being described. When employing this phrase, ensure clear context and avoid overuse to maintain its impact and relevance. Ludwig's data highlights authoritative sources such as The Guardian and The New York Times as frequent users, underlining its reliability and widespread acceptance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

essential element of democracy

Replaces 'cornerstone' with 'essential element', focusing on the fundamental nature.

fundamental principle of democracy

Substitutes 'cornerstone' with 'fundamental principle', highlighting the foundational aspect.

critical component of democracy

Changes 'cornerstone' to 'critical component', emphasizing its importance in the system.

indispensable aspect of democracy

Replaces 'cornerstone' with 'indispensable aspect', stressing its necessity.

vital foundation of democracy

Uses 'vital foundation' instead of 'cornerstone', highlighting its role as a base.

key ingredient of democracy

Employs 'key ingredient' instead of 'cornerstone', likening it to a necessary element.

basic building block of democracy

Substitutes 'cornerstone' with 'basic building block', emphasizing its role in constructing democracy.

underlying tenet of democracy

Replaces 'cornerstone' with 'underlying tenet', highlighting the principle supporting democracy.

central pillar of democracy

Uses 'central pillar' in place of 'cornerstone', stressing its supportive role.

core requirement of democracy

Replaces 'cornerstone' with 'core requirement', focusing on the necessity of the element.

FAQs

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

You can use "cornerstone of democracy" to emphasize the fundamental nature of a particular principle or practice within a democratic system. For example: "A free press is a "cornerstone of democracy" because it holds power accountable."

What are some alternatives to "cornerstone of democracy"?

Alternatives include "essential element of democracy", "fundamental principle of democracy", or "critical component of democracy", depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "cornerstone of democracy" in informal writing?

While "cornerstone of democracy" is generally suitable for formal and neutral contexts, it can be used in informal writing if the tone remains serious and the topic warrants it. Be mindful of your audience and the overall purpose of your writing.

What is the difference between "cornerstone of democracy" and "foundation of democracy"?

Both phrases are very similar. "Cornerstone of democracy" emphasizes the critical and indispensable nature of a particular element, while "foundation of democracy" highlights the basic, underlying structure upon which democracy is built.