pillars

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "pillars" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used metaphorically to refer to fundamental principles or essential elements that support a concept, organization, or system. Example: "The pillars of our community are trust, respect, and collaboration."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Travel

Opinion

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He returned to Japan with his wife and founded Nikka, a company that, along with Suntory, is one of the pillars of the Japanese whisky industry.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

In Cappadocia, the thrill of hurtling along a trail on two wheels is amplified by its otherworldly landscape of rock pillars, known as "fairy chimneys", many reaching more than 40 metres high, as well as its cave houses and ancient Byzantine churches.

The Guardian - Travel

What the duration of this recession surely shows is how dysfunctional the three interlocking pillars of British capitalism have become.

The Guardian - Opinion

The SDLP leader, Alasdair McDonnell, said the party had lost "one of its founding pillars".

The Guardian

She orders the public not to call her by her name and flares her nostrils with disgust whenever she's placed anywhere that isn't covered in gold pillars.

The Guardian - Film

We've rounded up some of the key pillars of debate among Guardian readers from Nigeria, France and beyond.

The Guardian

"Innovation and hospitality will be the two pillars for Paris to continue to outperform as the top destination in the world for tourism," he said.

The Guardian - Travel

Bremner later told the BBC: "In some ways Bird and Fortune were the pillars of the anti-establishment.

The Guardian

Although Rubio remains an underdog in the state, the three pillars of his campaign – hawkishness on defense, a compelling personal story, and his relative youth (he is 43) – have left South Carolinians impressed and endeared them to his candidacy.

The Guardian

At dinner with the American ambassador, they were invited to "exchange ideas" with pillars of the totalitarian regime.

The Guardian

In the misty gloom we draw towards buildings with black-tiled roofs and red pillars, like the palaces in Seoul.

The Guardian - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When referring to physical structures, ensure the context clarifies whether you mean literal or figurative supports.

Common error

Avoid using "pillars" when the context requires a more nuanced term. "Pillars" implies foundational support, so ensure it accurately reflects the role of the elements you're describing.

Linguistic Context

The word "pillars" functions primarily as a noun, typically used as the plural form of "pillar". It can refer to literal, physical supports or, more commonly, to the fundamental principles or key aspects that support something abstract, like a concept or organization, as shown in Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Travel

15%

Opinion

10%

Less common in

Sport

7%

Film

7%

Arts

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "pillars" is a grammatically sound and frequently used noun, functioning both literally and metaphorically to denote support and foundation. Ludwig's analysis reveals its prevalence in contexts like News & Media, Travel, and Opinion, highlighting its versatility. As Ludwig AI confirms, the word effectively conveys the idea of essential elements that uphold a system or concept. When choosing "pillars", remember it suggests robust and foundational support. Alternatives such as "cornerstones" and "mainstays" offer similar meanings, yet "pillars" uniquely emphasizes vertical strength. Avoid using it loosely; instead, reserve it for instances where the elements truly serve as crucial supports.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

cornerstones

Emphasizes the fundamental and indispensable nature of something, similar to the primary support of a building.

mainstays

Highlights the reliability and dependability of something as a crucial element.

foundations

Focuses on the underlying basis or support system upon which something is built.

linchpins

Stresses the critical role of something in holding a system or structure together.

key elements

Directly refers to the essential components or aspects of something.

essential components

Similar to 'key elements', but places more emphasis on the parts that make up a whole.

fundamental principles

Highlights the basic rules or beliefs that serve as a foundation for something.

supporting structures

Emphasizes the role of providing stability and assistance.

building blocks

Indicates that something is a basic component used to create something larger or more complex.

integral parts

Highlights that something is essential and necessary for completeness.

FAQs

How can I use "pillars" in a sentence?

"Pillars" can be used both literally, referring to physical supports, and metaphorically, to describe the fundamental aspects of something. For example: "The "pillars of society" are eroding".

What are some synonyms for "pillars" in a metaphorical sense?

Alternatives include "cornerstones", "mainstays", or "foundations". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "pillars" instead of "cornerstones"?

"Pillars" often suggests vertical support and strength, while "cornerstones" emphasizes a fundamental, underlying base. Use "pillars" when highlighting the supporting nature of something and "cornerstones" when focusing on the foundational aspect.

Is it correct to refer to abstract concepts as "pillars"?

Yes, it's common to use "pillars" metaphorically to describe the core principles or components of an idea, system, or organization. For example, the "pillars of democracy" or the "pillars of a successful business".