the cornerstone

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the cornerstone" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to refer to something that is fundamental or essential to a particular system, idea, or structure. Example: "Trust is the cornerstone of any successful relationship."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

But oysters are the cornerstone.

The New York Times - Travel

"Bellows is the cornerstone of our collection".

The New York Times - Arts

But pitching has been the cornerstone.

The New York Times - Sports

Universities are the cornerstone of free thought.

Independent

Tomorrow, the cornerstone is Beethoven.

The New York Times - Arts

THE CORNERSTONE Jill McCarron trio.

The New York Times

The cornerstone of my life.

The Guardian - Film

THE CORNERSTONE -- Victor Lin Trio.

The New York Times

The cornerstone, Red Rooster, opened in December 2010.

The New York Times

Education is the cornerstone of feminism.

The Guardian

Normalization is the cornerstone of that".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "the cornerstone", ensure it clearly identifies the most fundamental aspect of whatever you're describing. The stronger the connection, the more impactful the statement.

Common error

Avoid using "the cornerstone" for aspects that are merely important but not truly foundational. Reserve it for elements that are absolutely essential and without which the whole structure would collapse.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the cornerstone" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or an appositive. It identifies something as fundamental or essential, as demonstrated by Ludwig AI, referencing many examples of real English from reliable sources.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Science

33%

Wiki

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

2%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the cornerstone" is a widely used phrase to denote something fundamental or essential. Ludwig AI analysis confirms it's grammatically correct and appears frequently in News & Media and Scientific contexts. While versatile, it's crucial to use it judiciously, reserving it for elements that are genuinely foundational. Alternatives like "the foundation" or "the linchpin" may be more suitable depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. The frequency is very common.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the foundation

Focuses on the base or groundwork of something.

the bedrock

Emphasizes the fundamental and unshakeable nature.

the basis

Highlights the underlying principle or reason.

the heart

Suggests the central and vital part.

the linchpin

Implies something that holds everything together.

the key element

Focuses on an indispensable component.

the central aspect

Highlights the most important feature.

the core principle

Emphasizes the fundamental belief or doctrine.

the fundamental element

Highlights the essential and basic component.

the keystone

Similar to cornerstone, often used metaphorically.

FAQs

How can I use "the cornerstone" in a sentence?

Use "the cornerstone" to emphasize the fundamental nature of something. For example, "Trust is "the cornerstone" of any successful relationship" or "Education is "the cornerstone" of a thriving society".

What are some alternatives to "the cornerstone"?

Alternatives include "the foundation", "the bedrock", "the basis", "the linchpin", or "the key element". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What's the difference between "the cornerstone" and "the foundation"?

While both terms refer to something fundamental, "the cornerstone" often implies a more visible and prominent role, akin to the literal stone at the corner of a building. "The foundation" (/s/the+foundation) is a more general term for the base or groundwork.

Is it appropriate to use "the cornerstone" in informal writing?

While "the cornerstone" is suitable for both formal and informal writing, consider your audience. In very casual contexts, simpler alternatives like "the key" or "the basis" might be more appropriate.