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.
Trust is the cornerstone of a good relationship.
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.
Education is the cornerstone of society.
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.
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.
Freedom is the cornerstone of democracy.
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.
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.
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.
Honesty is the cornerstone of our business.
The cornerstone of the theory is the law of gravity.
The cornerstone of the old church has an inscription.