a nucleus for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a nucleus for" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a central or core element that serves as a foundation or starting point for something larger or more complex. Example: "The research center serves as a nucleus for innovative ideas and collaboration among scientists."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

39 human-written examples

Scarce resources were used to form NPAAF squadrons in major cities to provide a nucleus for future RCAF growth.

Britannica

The team has six choices in the first three rounds, giving the Falcons a chance to develop a nucleus for years to come.

The New York Times - Sports

It pretty much could be any fundamental particle, so it could be a photon or an electron or it could be a nucleus, for example.

The Guardian

Thus he constructs a nucleus for another WB series, one that contrives extrafamilial togetherness for a cluster of cause-seeking rebels.

The New York Times - Arts

Formerly a public school, P.S. 1 by 1976 had already become a nucleus for artists, many of whom opened studios in the areas, especially in the triangle known as Hunters Point.

The New York Times - Arts

But once this house, with its pebble-dashed walls, postage stamp front room, three bedrooms and a tiny strip of a garden - planted with apple trees by John's dead brother Paul - was a nucleus for the family.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

20 human-written examples

Just as NASA serves as a nucleus of aspiration for future scientists, famous women in science will do the same for young girls.

Huffington Post

Their great players leave school after two or three years, causing a constant process of regrouping, while smaller programs keep a nucleus together for three years.

The New York Times - Sports

One of the main goals was to develop "an essential nucleus" for a Somali civil aviation department.

The New York Times

Levy's idea, which combines nanotech, biotech, and medical-device technology, was an interesting nucleus for a company.

Science Magazine

The effective numbers of herds suggest that a small number of herds behaves as a selection nucleus for the rest of the breed.

Genetics, Selection, Evolution

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a nucleus for" when you want to emphasize the foundational or central role of something in the development or organization of something larger. Ensure the context clearly indicates what is being built upon or organized around the nucleus.

Common error

Avoid using "a nucleus for" when simply referring to any initial element. The phrase implies potential for growth and expansion, not just a starting point. Use more generic terms like "beginning" or "start" if that's the case.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a nucleus for" functions primarily as a prepositional phrase that modifies a noun. According to Ludwig, it indicates a central or core element serving as a foundation or starting point. As shown by Ludwig, it specifies the role of something as the initiator or core of further development.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

42%

News & Media

37%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a nucleus for" is a grammatically correct and commonly used prepositional phrase that signifies something serving as a foundational element for growth or organization. Analysis by Ludwig shows this phrase most often appears in Science and News & Media contexts, indicating its use in formal and objective writing. Alternatives include "a foundation for" and "a starting point for", but choosing the most appropriate option relies on the context. Remember to use "a nucleus for" when highlighting a central element that facilitates further development and be cautious about overusing it when a simpler phrase suffices.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a foundation for

Emphasizes the role of providing a base or support.

a basis for

Focuses on the underlying principle or reason.

a starting point for

Highlights the initial stage or beginning.

a core for

Stresses the central or essential part.

a center for

Indicates a place or entity that is a focal point.

a hub for

Suggests a place of activity and connection.

a focal point for

Highlights the element that attracts the most attention.

a cornerstone for

Implies fundamental importance and indispensability.

a seed for

Conveys the idea of potential growth and development.

a catalyst for

Emphasizes the role of initiating or accelerating a process.

FAQs

How can I use "a nucleus for" in a sentence?

Use "a nucleus for" to describe something that serves as a central starting point around which other things gather or develop. For example, "The community center became "a nucleus for" local activities".

What are some alternatives to "a nucleus for"?

Alternatives include "a foundation for", "a basis for", or "a starting point for", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "a nucleus of" grammatically correct instead of "a nucleus for"?

While "nucleus of" is also correct, it implies being a part of a larger whole, whereas "a nucleus for" suggests being the foundational element for something that will grow or be built.

When is it inappropriate to use "a nucleus for"?

It's inappropriate if the 'nucleus' doesn't actually lead to further development or organization. If it's simply an initial element without a building-upon aspect, consider alternatives like "the beginning of" or "the origin of".