the keystone

USAGE SUMMARY

"the keystone" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it to refer to something that is essential or central to a system or argument. An example: "Education is the keystone of a successful society." Alternative expressions include "the cornerstone" and "the linchpin."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The Keystone Collision?

The New York Times

The Keystone XL pipeline.

The Guardian

— blocking the Keystone XL oil pipeline.

The New York Times

Here is Pennsylvania, the Keystone State.

The New York Times

And builds the Keystone XL oil pipeline.

The New York Times

Gentry favors approval of the Keystone XL.

The New Yorker

Family was the keystone of her life.

The New York Times

The Keystone XL pipeline gave them one.

The New York Times

The central voussoir is called the keystone.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Tourism is the keystone of the economy.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Syria is the keystone of the Middle East.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "the keystone" in your writing, ensure that the context clearly establishes what depends on it. This will help avoid ambiguity and strengthen the impact of your statement.

Common error

Avoid using "the keystone" to describe something that is merely important but not fundamentally essential. Reserve it for elements without which the entire structure would collapse.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the keystone" primarily functions as a noun phrase, often serving as a subject complement or object in a sentence. According to Ludwig, this structure denotes something of paramount importance or centrality. Examples from Ludwig illustrate its usage in various contexts, emphasizing its essential role.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Science

23%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the keystone" is a grammatically sound and frequently used noun phrase that signifies an essential or fundamental element. According to Ludwig, its use spans across various domains, including news, science, and encyclopedias, with a tendency toward formality. While synonyms like "the cornerstone" and "the linchpin" exist, understanding the specific context ensures accurate and impactful communication. Always make sure when you employ it in your text the meaning of fundamental support is evident, as the AI, or Ludwig, can confirm.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the cornerstone

Refers to the fundamental basis or principle upon which something is established, similar to the keystone's essential role.

the linchpin

Emphasizes the crucial element that holds everything together, akin to a keystone's function in an arch.

the foundation

Highlights the underlying support or basis, comparable to the keystone's role in providing stability.

the central element

Focuses on the core aspect or component around which other elements revolve, mirroring the keystone's centrality.

the key component

Highlights the essential part necessary for the proper functioning of a system, similar to a keystone's importance.

the critical factor

Underscores the decisive element that significantly influences an outcome, analogous to a keystone's pivotal role.

the essential ingredient

Emphasizes the indispensable element required for completeness or success, akin to a keystone's necessity.

the backbone

Highlights the main support or strength of something, akin to the keystone that maintains a structure.

the heart

Implies the vital core or center of something, similar to the keystone's central position.

the crux

Denotes the decisive or critical point, similar to a keystone's role in determining stability.

FAQs

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

Use "the keystone" to describe something essential for success or stability. For example: "Communication is "the keystone" of a successful company."

What's a good alternative to "the keystone"?

Alternatives include "the cornerstone", "the linchpin", or "the foundation" depending on the context. Each emphasizes a slightly different aspect of importance.

Is it correct to use "keystone" without "the"?

While "keystone" can be used alone, using "the keystone" often adds emphasis and specificity, particularly when referring to a specific essential element.

What's the difference between "the keystone" and "the centerpiece"?

"The keystone" refers to an essential supporting element, while "the centerpiece" refers to a visually or conceptually central item. They are not interchangeable.