What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
polestar
Example
The sailors used the polestar to navigate their ship. [polestar: noun]
Example
Honesty and integrity are the polestars of his business philosophy. [polestars: plural noun]
Example
The polestar of the company's research is to develop sustainable energy solutions. [polestar: noun]
lodestar
Example
The lodestar guided the lost hikers back to their campsite. [lodestar: noun]
Example
Her passion for social justice has been her lodestar throughout her career. [lodestar: noun]
Example
The pursuit of knowledge is the lodestar of the university's academic mission. [lodestar: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Polestar is more commonly used than lodestar in everyday language, and it is more versatile in terms of usage.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between polestar and lodestar?
Both polestar and lodestar are formal words that are typically used in written or formal contexts, such as academic papers or literature.