a foundation on which

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a foundation on which" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the basis or underlying support for an idea, argument, or structure. Example: "The research provides a foundation on which future studies can build."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

We're a long way from real universal accessibility, but making commitments like this one at least creates a foundation on which to build an inclusive infrastructure.

TechCrunch

That provides a foundation on which many other towering misconceptions can be constructed.

The Economist

This basic idea provides a foundation on which modern theories about economic recovery are built.

The New York Times - Magazine

You need to secure a foundation on which your creativity can flourish".

The Guardian - Opinion

He added that the approval "provides a foundation on which to build our strategic recovery efforts".

The New York Times

Such software serves as a foundation on which programmers build their applications.

The New York Times

But at least the program gives me a foundation on which to build".

The New York Times

Its purpose is to provide a foundation on which climbing plants can be seen to advantage and to give shade.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Instead of demonizing Mr. Ryan for whatever problems his plan raises, it would be more constructive to view his proposals as a foundation on which to build.

The New York Times

And while the government-issued marker was free, someone had to pay the cemetery $450 to place a foundation on which to mount it.

The New York Times

La Pension Leblanc (1928), Choquette's first published novel, provided a foundation on which future television and radio series were to be based.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a foundation on which", ensure that the subsequent clause clearly explains what is being built or developed on that foundation. This helps to maintain clarity and coherence in your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "a foundation on which" when the base is not substantial or comprehensive enough to support the subsequent development. Ensure the 'foundation' truly provides a solid starting point.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a foundation on which" functions as a prepositional phrase that modifies a noun, indicating the basis or underlying support for something. As noted by Ludwig AI, it is commonly used to introduce the idea that something is built or developed upon this base. It often connects an idea or concept to its fundamental elements.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

43%

News & Media

40%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a foundation on which" serves to denote the underlying support or basis for something, typically leading to further development or construction. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability across diverse contexts. It is most commonly found in scientific and news-related publications, suggesting a neutral to formal register. While alternatives like "a basis for" or "a groundwork for" exist, the choice depends on the specific nuance and level of formality desired. When using this phrase, ensure clarity by explicitly stating what is being built upon the described foundation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a base for

Simplifies the original phrase by omitting "on which", making it slightly less formal.

a basis upon which

Replaces "foundation" with "basis", maintaining a formal tone but slightly altering the imagery.

a groundwork for

Substitutes "foundation on which" with "groundwork for", suggesting preliminary work that enables further development.

the bedrock of

Substitutes "foundation" with "bedrock", implying a solid, unshakeable base.

a cornerstone for

Replaces "foundation" with "cornerstone", emphasizing the essential and indispensable nature of the base.

a platform for

Substitutes "foundation" with "platform", implying a raised level or opportunity for advancement.

a springboard for

Replaces "foundation" with "springboard", highlighting the impetus or momentum provided.

a launchpad for

Similar to "springboard", but more suggestive of a structured beginning to a larger endeavor.

the underpinning of

Replaces the entire phrase with a more structural term, emphasizing support.

a starting point for

Offers a more straightforward alternative, emphasizing the initiation aspect.

FAQs

How to use "a foundation on which" in a sentence?

Use "a foundation on which" to indicate that something serves as a basis or starting point for something else. For example, "This study provides "a foundation on which" future research can be built."

What can I say instead of "a foundation on which"?

You can use alternatives like "a basis for", "a groundwork for", or "a platform for" depending on the context.

Is it more appropriate to say "a foundation on which" or "a basis on which"?

Both ""a foundation on which"" and "a basis on which" are grammatically correct and convey a similar meaning. The choice often depends on the desired level of formality and the specific nuance you wish to convey. "Foundation" often implies a more substantial and structured base.

Can "a foundation on which" be used in informal writing?

While "a foundation on which" is generally suitable for formal and academic writing, it can be used in informal contexts as well, especially when emphasizing the importance of a particular base or starting point. More informal alternatives might include "a starting point for" or "a base for".