Definitions
- Referring to a person or thing that is the most important or reliable part of something. - Describing a fundamental or essential element that provides support or stability. - Talking about a key component that is necessary for the success or continuation of something.
- Referring to a fundamental or essential element that forms the basis of something. - Describing a key component that is necessary for the success or continuation of something. - Talking about a crucial part of a structure that provides support and stability.
List of Similarities
- 1Both words refer to fundamental or essential elements.
- 2Both words suggest a sense of importance and necessity.
- 3Both words can be used metaphorically to describe abstract concepts.
What is the difference?
- 1Usage: Mainstay is more commonly used to describe a person or thing that is the most important or reliable part of something, while cornerstone is more often used to describe a fundamental element that forms the basis of something.
- 2Metaphor: Mainstay suggests a sense of support and reliability, while cornerstone implies a sense of foundation and stability.
- 3Connotation: Mainstay has a connotation of ongoing support and continuity, while cornerstone has a connotation of initial establishment and firmness.
- 4Usage in context: Mainstay is often used in the context of describing a person or thing that is vital to the success or continuation of something, while cornerstone is often used in the context of describing a fundamental element that forms the basis of something.
Remember this!
Mainstay and cornerstone are synonyms that both refer to fundamental or essential elements. However, mainstay is more commonly used to describe a person or thing that is the most important or reliable part of something, while cornerstone is more often used to describe a fundamental element that forms the basis of something. Additionally, mainstay suggests a sense of support and reliability, while cornerstone implies a sense of foundation and stability.
