custodian of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'custodian of' is correct and usable in written English.
You could use it to describe someone who is responsible for looking after something. For example, "Thomas is the custodian of the family's records."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"Just be a custodian of the moment.

The New York Times

You're just a custodian of it.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Kirstenbosch is just the custodian of them.

The Guardian

He's a self-appointed custodian of obscurity.

The New Yorker

"Zahi became the Custodian of the Pyramids," he said.

The New Yorker

GIPEC became the latest custodian of the conundrum.

The New Yorker

Unesco is the custodian of this idea and its practice.

The New York Times

Lerner is proving an honourable custodian of Villa's past.

Independent

King Salman is the custodian of Islam's two holiest shrines.

Independent

Dai sees himself as a custodian of traditional skills.

The New Yorker

I think I am a custodian of the Jewish people.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "custodian of" to emphasize the responsibility of care, preservation, or guardianship over something valuable or important, whether tangible or intangible.

Common error

Avoid using "custodian of" when simply referring to temporary possession. The phrase implies a deeper responsibility for preservation and long-term well-being, not just short-term holding.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "custodian of" functions as a noun complement, typically following a noun or pronoun to describe someone or something responsible for the care, protection, or preservation of something else. Ludwig AI indicates that it is a valid and common phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Science

24%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "custodian of" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression that signifies responsibility for the care, preservation, or protection of something. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is versatile, appearing across diverse contexts from news and media to scientific publications. While alternatives such as "guardian of" or "steward of" exist, "custodian of" specifically underscores a long-term commitment to maintaining the integrity of what is entrusted.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Guardian of

Implies a protective role, often against threats or harm.

Keeper of

Suggests someone who maintains or preserves something.

Steward of

Indicates managing resources or property responsibly.

Caretaker of

Emphasizes providing care and attention to something.

Trustee of

Highlights a legal or formal responsibility for assets or people.

Preserver of

Focuses on maintaining something in its original condition.

Protector of

Suggests safeguarding something from danger or damage.

Conservator of

Implies managing something, especially to prevent loss or waste.

Manager of

Refers to handling day-to-day operations and responsibilities.

Administrator of

Indicates a formal role in overseeing and managing something.

FAQs

How is "custodian of" used in a sentence?

The phrase "custodian of" is used to indicate someone who is responsible for protecting, preserving, or caring for something. For example, "The museum is the "custodian of" ancient artifacts".

What are some alternatives to "custodian of"?

Alternatives to "custodian of" include "guardian of", "keeper of", and "steward of", depending on the specific context.

What does it mean to be the "custodian of" something?

To be the "custodian of" something means you are entrusted with the responsibility of protecting and maintaining it, ensuring its preservation for the future.

Is there a difference between "custodian of" and "owner of"?

Yes, a "custodian of" something is responsible for its care and preservation, while the "owner of" something has legal rights over it. A custodian may not necessarily be the owner.