lifeblood

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "lifeblood" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe something that is essential for the existence or functioning of something else, often in a metaphorical sense. Example: "For many small businesses, customer loyalty is the lifeblood that keeps them afloat."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The lifeblood of the village is the Kings Head pub, which draws people away from the site in the evening.

The Guardian - Travel

As well as the lifeblood of young starters in the sector, manufacturers also need better access to experts from around the world.

The Guardian - Business

Politics was his lifeblood, shaped by his birthplace: tough, working-class Catholic Belfast.

The Guardian

Personal enthusiasms are the lifeblood of cumbersome institutions and it beggars belief that Curtis can be criticised for (at long last) giving sculpture its proper place in the pantheon.

The Guardian - Arts

Yet there was not one truly original new idea to substitute as the lifeblood of the campaign.

The Guardian

Stanistreet, a former Express staffer, said: "Sport is the lifeblood of the Express titles.

The Guardian

Giving the commencement address at Dickinson College in Pennsylvania earlier this week, the Booker prize-winning author said that free speech was "the lifeblood, the essential condition of the liberal education you've just received", but that its condition is "desperate" in many places around the world.

The Guardian - Books

But unlike Cannes, open to "film professionals" only, at Toronto everyday mortals are the festival's lifeblood.

The Guardian - Film

The pit was the lifeblood of the place, socially and economically, and things went downhill as soon as it closed.

The Guardian

To the dismay of most who knew their work, Third Angel, a small experimental performance company based in Sheffield, has lost 100% of its Arts Council England grant of just over £33,360 – not even peanuts in the big picture of public spending, but lifeblood to them.

The Guardian

pic.twitter.com/GnI8dQbTj5 (h/t: @kaylaepstein) Facebook Twitter Google plus Share Share this post Facebook Twitter Google plus close 12.06pm ET17 06 Guardian Washington correspondent Paul Lewis (@PaulLewis) watches as tourists, the lifeblood of the capital, begin to circulate in earnest again.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "lifeblood", ensure the metaphor is appropriate for your audience and context. Overuse can dilute its impact.

Common error

Avoid using "lifeblood" in contexts where literal blood is meant; it's primarily a metaphorical term. For example, don't say "The victim lost a lot of lifeblood" when you mean blood.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "lifeblood" functions primarily as a noun, often used metaphorically to describe something vital or essential to the existence or functioning of something else. Ludwig's examples show its use in various contexts, highlighting its versatility as a descriptor.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

51%

Formal & Business

28%

Science

21%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "lifeblood" is a potent metaphorical noun, signifying something absolutely essential for survival or function. Ludwig's analysis shows it's grammatically correct and very common, especially in news and business contexts. While versatile, its impact is strongest when used judiciously. Consider alternatives like "essential element" or "vital component" for less metaphorical options. Remember to avoid using "lifeblood" in literal blood contexts. Ludwig AI affirms the phrase is correct and usable in written English, further validating its appropriateness in various settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

essential element

This alternative is a more direct and less metaphorical way to describe something that is necessary.

vital component

This alternative emphasizes the role of something as a part of a larger system.

core ingredient

This alternative highlights the importance of something as a fundamental part of a mixture or process.

key necessity

This alternative stresses the indispensable nature of something.

fundamental requirement

This alternative focuses on the basic conditions that must be met.

prime requisite

This alternative is a more formal way of saying something is essential and necessary.

driving force

This alternative emphasizes the power and energy that something provides.

backbone

This alternative emphasizes the strength and support that something provides.

cornerstone

This alternative highlights the foundational importance of something.

mainstay

This alternative emphasizes the reliability and consistent support that something offers.

FAQs

How can I use "lifeblood" in a sentence?

You can use "lifeblood" to describe something essential for the existence or success of something else. For example, "Innovation is the "lifeblood" of the tech industry."

What's a good substitute for "lifeblood"?

Alternatives include "essential element", "vital component", or "core ingredient", depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "lifeblood" in formal writing?

Yes, "lifeblood" can be used in formal writing, particularly to add emphasis or a vivid image. However, consider the formality of the overall piece and ensure the metaphor fits the tone.

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

It means that the thing described as the "lifeblood" is absolutely essential and vital for the other thing's survival, function, or success. Without it, the other thing would likely fail or cease to exist.