a basic element

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a basic element" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a fundamental or essential part of something. Example: "Understanding a basic element of the theory is crucial for grasping the overall concept."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"A basic element for companies today is image," he said.

The New York Times

"It's a basic element, the residue of exploded stars.

The New York Times - Magazine

This is a basic element of maturity that Roger refuses.

The New York Times

The instruments themselves are naturally a basic element in the story.

The New York Times - Arts

A basic element, arsenic in small doses can stimulate the metabolism.

The New York Times - Science

"It stands for the proposition that productivity is a basic element in this round of bargaining".

The New York Times

So bombing them may also be seen as attacking a basic element of Israeli hopes.

The New York Times

Religion pervades many aspects of life and constitutes a basic element of this diversity.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Online treatment upends a basic element of therapeutic connection: eye contact.

The New York Times

A basic element in traditional Crow religious life was the vision quest.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The result is significant, according to Microsoft researchers, because sorting is a basic element of many modern computing operations.

The New York Times - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a basic element", ensure it clearly identifies a fundamental or essential component. Avoid vagueness by specifying its role or importance within the context.

Common error

Be mindful of overusing "a basic element" in your writing. While it's a valid phrase, overuse can make your writing sound repetitive. Consider using synonyms like "fundamental component" or "essential aspect" to diversify your vocabulary.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a basic element" primarily functions as a noun phrase, identifying a fundamental or essential component of something. Ludwig AI validates this through numerous examples showing its role in specifying core aspects across diverse subjects.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

16%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a basic element" is a widely used phrase that signifies a fundamental or essential component. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and prevalence across various contexts, including news, science, and encyclopedias. While versatile, it's advisable to avoid overuse and consider synonyms like "fundamental component" or "essential aspect" for richer writing. The phrase serves to emphasize the importance of a particular aspect in the understanding or construction of a larger concept or system.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a fundamental component

Replaces 'basic' with 'fundamental', emphasizing the foundational nature.

an essential ingredient

Substitutes 'element' with 'ingredient', highlighting the necessity of the component.

a core principle

Replaces 'element' with 'principle', focusing on a guiding belief or concept.

a key aspect

Uses 'key aspect' to emphasize importance rather than fundamentality.

a building block

Emphasizes the role of the element in constructing something larger.

an integral part

Highlights the inseparability and necessity of the element.

a necessary condition

Focuses on the element as a requirement for something else to occur.

a crucial factor

Emphasizes the element's decisive influence on an outcome.

a foundation stone

Similar to 'building block', but with a stronger emphasis on stability and support.

a critical piece

Highlights the element's importance in completing a whole or solving a problem.

FAQs

How can I use "a basic element" in a sentence?

You can use "a basic element" to refer to a fundamental part of something. For example, "Understanding the target audience is "a basic element" of successful marketing."

What can I say instead of "a basic element"?

You can use alternatives like "a fundamental component", "an essential aspect", or "a key element" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "a basic element" or "an basic element"?

"A basic element" is correct. Use "a" before consonant sounds and "an" before vowel sounds. "Basic" begins with a consonant sound.

What's the difference between "a basic element" and "a key element"?

While both refer to important parts, ""a basic element"" emphasizes fundamentality or necessity, whereas "a key element" highlights particular importance or significance.