key pillar

USAGE SUMMARY

"key pillar" is a correct and usable expression in written English.
It refers to something important, essential, or fundamental to something else. For example: "Education is a key pillar of our society; it ensures a better future for everyone."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Transport was always a key pillar of the powerhouse project.

The Guardian - Opinion

Philip will remain a key pillar for FC Bayern.

The Guardian - Sport

Renewable energies are a key pillar of power sector decarbonisation.

Energy

Exporting was a key pillar of my business, Tangle Teezer, from the word go.

The Guardian

"Clearly the dollar will remain the key pillar of the global financial architecture," Mr. Lissovolik said.

The New York Times

Crises abroad are often contrasted with positive domestic news, a key pillar of China's propaganda machine.

The Guardian

Recognize that consciously setting priorities is a key pillar of success.

Harvard Business Review

A key pillar, Martin said, is "diversity" in the supplier market.

The Washington Post

Kenya said the abductions threatened tourism, a key pillar of the economy.

The Washington Post

Manufacturing has been identified as a key pillar of growth in many Southeast Asian (ASEAN) economies.

Robotics and Computer-Integrated Manufacturing

Improving energy efficiency is seen as a key pillar in transforming the energy system.

Energy Procedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "key pillar", ensure the context clearly establishes what the pillar supports. This adds clarity and impact to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "key pillar" repeatedly within a short span of text. This can make your writing sound repetitive. Instead, vary your language by using synonyms such as "cornerstone" or "essential component".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "key pillar" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as a subject complement or an appositive. It identifies a crucial element supporting a larger system or concept, emphasizing its foundational role, as shown in the Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

13%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "key pillar" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to emphasize the fundamental importance of a particular element. Ludwig's analysis, based on numerous examples from reputable sources, confirms its broad applicability across various contexts, particularly in news and media, science, and formal business settings. As Ludwig's AI indicates, the phrase is well-established and readily understood, making it a reliable choice for highlighting essential aspects in your writing. While versatile, avoid overusing "key pillar" in close proximity and ensure the context clearly defines what the pillar supports. Alternatives like "core pillar" or "essential component" can help maintain variety and clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Core pillar

Replaces "key" with "core", suggesting the most central and important aspect.

Essential component

Shifts from a structural metaphor to a more general term for a necessary part.

Fundamental element

Emphasizes the foundational nature of the element.

Cornerstone

Uses a different architectural metaphor, focusing on the foundational aspect.

Backbone

Implies structural strength and support, similar to a spine.

Lynchpin

Highlights the crucial element that holds everything together.

Mainstay

Suggests a reliable and consistent source of support.

Central tenet

Emphasizes a core belief or principle.

Key aspect

A more general term, highlighting an important part of something.

Vital ingredient

Uses a metaphor of a necessary component for success.

FAQs

How can I use "key pillar" in a sentence?

You can use "key pillar" to describe something essential or fundamental to a larger concept or structure. For example, "Education is a "key pillar" of societal progress".

What are some alternatives to "key pillar"?

Alternatives include "core pillar", "essential component", or "cornerstone", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is "key pillar" formal or informal?

"Key pillar" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. Its appropriateness depends more on the surrounding language and the overall tone of the writing.

What does it mean when something is described as a "key pillar"?

Describing something as a "key pillar" means it's a fundamental aspect, essential for support and stability, much like a physical pillar supports a building.