What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
quoin
Example
The architect chose to use quoin stones to add a decorative touch to the building's corners. [quoin: noun]
Example
The printer adjusted the quoin to ensure the type was securely in place. [quoin: noun]
cornerstone
Example
The cornerstone of the new church was laid with a ceremony and celebration. [cornerstone: noun]
Example
Honesty is the cornerstone of any healthy relationship. [cornerstone: noun]
Example
The signing of the treaty was a cornerstone moment in the history of the two countries. [cornerstone: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Cornerstone is more commonly used than quoin in everyday language, and it has a broader range of applications. Quoin is less common and more technical, and it is typically used in specific contexts such as architecture or printing.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between quoin and cornerstone?
Quoin is a more technical and specialized term, and it is typically used in formal or technical contexts. Cornerstone is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, depending on the context and tone of the conversation or writing.
