a baseline

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a baseline" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in contexts such as research, statistics, or project management to refer to a standard or reference point against which things can be measured or compared. Example: "Before we start the new project, we need to establish a baseline to measure our progress."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"Drowning is a baseline fear.

The New Yorker

So, is there a baseline?

The Guardian

(This is against a baseline from 2005).

The New Yorker

(This was against a baseline of 1990).

The New Yorker

Djokovic goes long on a baseline rally.

The Guardian - Sport

The "aesthetics are just a baseline.

The New Yorker

But aesthetics are just a baseline.

The New York Times

"But public service is a baseline.

The New York Times

Enthusiastic consent should be a baseline expectation, not an aspiration.

The Guardian - Opinion

Alonzo Mourning tied the score with a baseline jumper.

The New York Times - Sports

Early in the conversation, I established a baseline.

The New York Times - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In scientific research, always document the process of establishing "a baseline" to maintain transparency and replicability.

Common error

Avoid using "a baseline" interchangeably with a target. A baseline represents an initial state or reference point, while a target is a desired future outcome or goal.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a baseline" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as a subject or object within a sentence. It denotes a reference point against which future measurements or comparisons are made. Ludwig examples showcase it setting a point of origin for analysis.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Science

40%

Wiki

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a baseline" is a noun phrase that serves as a reference point or standard for comparison. It is grammatically correct and commonly used across various contexts, particularly in news media and scientific research. As Ludwig AI confirms, its main function is to provide a point of origin for analysis. When using this phrase, ensure it is clearly defined to avoid confusion with similar terms like "a benchmark".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a benchmark

Replaces "baseline" with a synonym that also implies a standard for comparison.

a reference point

Offers a more explicit and descriptive alternative to "baseline".

a standard

Provides a simpler, more general term for "baseline".

a starting point

Focuses on the initial aspect of a baseline as a place to begin measurement.

a point of comparison

Highlights the use of a baseline for evaluating other data.

a control

Emphasizes the role of a baseline in scientific experiments as a standard for comparison.

a foundation

Implies that a baseline is a fundamental element upon which further analysis is built.

an initial measurement

Specifically refers to the act of establishing a baseline through measurement.

a yardstick

Uses a metaphorical term for a standard of measurement or comparison.

a touchstone

Uses a more abstract term for a baseline that tests the quality or genuineness of something.

FAQs

How to use "a baseline" in a sentence?

You can use "a baseline" to describe a starting point for comparison, such as "We need to establish "a baseline" before we can measure improvement".

What can I say instead of "a baseline"?

You can use alternatives like "a benchmark", "a reference point", or "a standard" depending on the context.

What's the difference between "a baseline" and "a benchmark"?

While both terms refer to a standard for comparison, "a benchmark" often implies a higher level of achievement or aspiration than "a baseline", which is simply the initial state.

Why is establishing "a baseline" important?

Establishing "a baseline" is crucial for measuring progress, evaluating the impact of interventions, and understanding changes over time. Without it, it's difficult to determine whether improvements have been made or not.