pillar of support

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "pillar of support" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to talk about someone who greatly helps and supports you, or when talking about something that provides valuable, reliable help and guidance. Example: My mother has been my pillar of support throughout my difficult times.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

45 human-written examples

The slowdown raised fears that the economy's main pillar of support was weakening.

The New York Times

"She was very much a pillar of support, spiritually and in every other way.

The New York Times

"You have been a pillar of support thro life," Jefferson wrote to Madison.

The New York Times - Arts

She captured the essence of elegance and was a pillar of support for the Hospital.

The New York Times

Her marriage was a pillar of support for her in her later years.

The New York Times

Amid the shaky economy of the last couple of years, housing has emerged as the central pillar of support.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

13 human-written examples

But there are signs of growing anxiety, even among the government's pillars of support, and some government supporters complain that the crackdown has so far failed to stanch dissent.

The New York Times

The governors described supporters in government and the wider education sector as "absolute pillars of support".

BBC

Her parents have passed away, so I'm one of her main pillars of support.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"They have been powerful pillars of support when I have needed them most over the past year.

Independent

"Pillars of support within the caucus or conference and an uninterested or distracted press corps whose attention is focused elsewhere".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "pillar of support" to describe something or someone providing consistent, reliable aid or strength, especially during challenging times.

Common error

Avoid using "pillar of support" for fleeting or inconsistent assistance; the metaphor implies a sustained and dependable source of help.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "pillar of support" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or object in a sentence. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage, indicating its role in describing a source of strength and reliability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Formal & Business

13%

Science

11%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "pillar of support" is a widely used and grammatically sound expression that effectively conveys the idea of a consistent and reliable source of help or strength. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it functions primarily as a noun phrase and is suitable for various contexts, ranging from news reports to personal testimonials. While its frequent usage in News & Media is notable, it maintains relevance across Formal & Business and Scientific domains. To enhance your writing, remember that the metaphor implies a sustained and dependable contribution, making it most appropriate for describing long-term or crucial assistance. Consider alternatives like "source of strength" or "reliable support system" to add variety and precision to your language.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

source of strength

Focuses on the emotional and mental fortitude provided.

reliable support system

Highlights the consistent and dependable nature of the support.

foundation of assistance

Emphasizes the fundamental and crucial role of the support.

rock of stability

Stresses the unwavering and steadfast nature of the support.

tower of strength

Highlights the powerful and resilient nature of the support.

main source of help

Directly indicates the primary provider of aid.

key resource for assistance

Emphasizes the practical and valuable nature of the support.

essential backbone

Highlights the structural importance of the support.

primary advocate

Focuses on active promotion and defense.

central figure of aid

Highlights the prominent and leading role in providing help.

FAQs

How can I use "pillar of support" in a sentence?

You can use "pillar of support" to describe someone or something that provides consistent and reliable help, such as, "My family has been my "pillar of support" throughout my career."

What are some alternatives to "pillar of support"?

Alternatives to "pillar of support" include "source of strength", "reliable support system", or "foundation of assistance", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "pillar of support"?

It's appropriate to use "pillar of support" when referring to a consistent and dependable source of help or strength. For example, a long-term mentor can be described as a ""pillar of support"".

Is "pillar of support" an overused expression?

While "pillar of support" is a common phrase, its effectiveness depends on the context. Using it appropriately to describe a truly reliable and consistent source of help is fine. However, consider alternatives like "essential backbone" or "rock of stability" to avoid repetition.