柱ちゅう石せき

noun

pillar; cornerstone

Refers to a person or thing that serves as a central support or foundation, often in an organization or society. Can be used literally for a structural pillar, but the figurative sense is more common.

• 彼かれは会かい社しゃの柱ちゅう石せきとして長なが年ねん働はたらいてきた。

  He has worked for many years as a pillar of the company.

• 教きょう育いくは国くにの柱ちゅう石せきである。

  Education is the cornerstone of a nation.