touchstone Definition
a standard or criterion by which something is judged or recognized.
Using touchstone: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "touchstone" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
Accuracy is the touchstone of good journalism.
Example
The ability to make people laugh is the touchstone of a good comedian.
Example
The book is a touchstone for modern literature.
touchstone Synonyms and Antonyms
Phrases with touchstone
an issue that is used to test the suitability or acceptability of a political candidate or policy
Example
Abortion has become a touchstone issue in this election.
a work of literature that is widely accepted as a standard against which other works are judged
Example
Shakespeare's Hamlet is often considered a touchstone text for English literature.
a critical moment or event that serves as a test of character or ability
Example
The team's performance in the championship game was a touchstone moment for their coach.
Origins of touchstone
from the practice of testing the purity of gold by rubbing it on a black stone called 'touchstone'
Summary: touchstone in Brief
The term 'touchstone' [ˈtʌtʃstəʊn] refers to a standard or criterion by which something is judged or recognized. It is often used in phrases like 'touchstone issue,' 'touchstone text,' and 'touchstone moment,' which respectively denote an issue used to test the suitability of a candidate or policy, a work of literature widely accepted as a standard, and a critical moment that tests character or ability.
