touchstone
Translation
touchstone, criterion, standard
Examples
This report is the touchstone for future policy.
This report is the touchstone for future policy.
His work remains a touchstone of quality.
His work remains a touchstone of quality.
Grammar Patterns
a touchstone for ((sth.)) a standard by which ((sth.)) is judged This new law is a touchstone for the government's commitment.
a touchstone of ((sth.)) a classic example of ((sth.)) The book is a touchstone of literary quality.
Similar Words
Synonyms: criterion, standard, benchmark, yardstick
Etymology
From 'touch' + 'stone'. Historically, it was a dark stone used to test the purity of gold or silver by the color of the streak left on it.
Memory Tips
Imagine a jeweler 'touching' gold to a special 'stone' to test its quality. This visual connects to its meaning as a standard or test.