Translation guide
The English word "cornerstone" has two main uses: a literal stone at the corner of a building, and a figurative meaning of something fundamentally important. This guide focuses on the figurative sense, which is more common for learners, and briefly covers the literal architectural term.
Expressing that something is the most important part or fundamental basis of a system, belief, or plan.
The most common and versatile word for 'foundation' or 'basis'. It works in many contexts, from abstract concepts to concrete structures.
Referring to the actual stone placed at the corner of a building, often in a ceremonial context.
The standard term for a cornerstone in architecture. Can also be used metaphorically, but is less common than 基礎 in figurative speech.
基礎 (kiso) is the most general word for 'foundation' and can be used for both physical and abstract foundations. 基盤 (kiban) often implies a larger, more systemic base, like a 'platform' or 'infrastructure'. In many cases they are interchangeable, but 基盤 is more common in business and IT contexts.
Do not directly translate 'cornerstone' as 角の石 (kado no ishi) in figurative contexts. It will sound unnatural. Use 基礎 or 基盤 instead.
誠実さが我が社の基盤です。
Honesty is the cornerstone of our business.
その理論の基礎は重力の法則です。
The cornerstone of the theory is the law of gravity.
Trust is the cornerstone of a good relationship.
この理論は実験データを基礎としている。
This theory is built on the cornerstone of experimental data.
Similar to 基礎, but often implies a broader 'platform' or 'infrastructure' on which something is built. Common in business and technology contexts.
教育は社会の基盤である。
Education is the cornerstone of society.
この会社の成功の基盤は技術力だ。
The cornerstone of this company's success is its technical strength.
Literally the 'pivot' or 'linchpin'. It emphasizes the single most crucial element holding everything together. Often used in set phrases.
彼がこのプロジェクトの要だ。
He is the cornerstone of this project.
A formal, literary phrase meaning 'to form the root and trunk' of something. Used in serious writing about principles or systems.
自由は民主主義の根幹を成す。
Freedom is the cornerstone of democracy.
市長が新しい図書館の礎石を据えた。
The mayor laid the cornerstone of the new library.
A more literal term for a corner stone, but rarely used. 礎石 is preferred even for physical stones.
古い教会の隅石には刻印がある。
The cornerstone of the old church has an inscription.