What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
mainstay
Example
The tourism industry is a mainstay of the local economy. [mainstay: noun]
Example
Her family has been the mainstay of her support system throughout her life. [mainstay: noun]
cornerstone
Example
Education is the cornerstone of a successful career. [cornerstone: noun]
Example
Trust is the cornerstone of any healthy relationship. [cornerstone: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Cornerstone is slightly less common than mainstay in everyday language, but both words are still widely used and understood.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between mainstay and cornerstone?
Both mainstay and cornerstone are formal words that are appropriate for use in academic, professional, and other formal contexts.
