a reliable foundation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a reliable foundation" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing something that serves as a trustworthy base or support for an idea, argument, or structure. Example: "In order to build a successful business, it is essential to have a reliable foundation in financial management."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

For the first time, we have a reliable foundation for our appreciation of one of the great early 19th-century also-rans.

The Guardian - Books

To create a reliable foundation for multivariate, quantitative analysis, optimising measurements (Part I) with respect to well chosen criteria is of high importance.

Chemometrics and Intelligent Laboratory Systems

Suddenly, Jordan would stand alone as the sole Arab state that formally recognises Israel – and judging by King Abdullah's hasty sacking of his prime minister today under popular pressure, that hardly seems a reliable foundation.

The Guardian - Opinion

The veteran central defenders Berezutski and Sergei Ignashevich have been a reliable foundation for Capello in front of the trusted goalkeeper Igor Akinfeev and the Italian has introduced a high-tempo pressing game to the midfield.

The Guardian - Sport

("After an extensive review of the record, relevant case law and scientific literature, we agree that the product rule method of analyzing DNA statistical evidence rests upon a reliable foundation.... the trial court fulfilled its 'gatekeeper' duties prior to admission".).

Harvard University

To create a reliable foundation ground for airport facilities, the placement of good quality fill material over the dredged clay layer and the vertical drainage to accelerate the consolidation of the layer are necessary.

Elsevier Geo-Engineering Book Series

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

Mr. Simon, as usual, is extremely articulate in describing both the writing of the lyrics and their synchronization with the bass, which, given the music's light, skipping beats of South African mbaqanga, proved to be a more reliable foundation than the drums.

The New York Times

Furthermore, it is well suited for database searches and will provide a more reliable foundation for systems biology approaches.

Chemistry Central Journal

In addition, in conjunction with the appropriate clinical reasoning, evidence synthesis by inferential methods creates a more reliable foundation for decision making.

CPT: Pharmacometrics and Systems Pharmacology

Whereas the Peripatetics had extolled intellection, Suhrawardi brings direct intuition or mystical contemplation (heightened by ascetic components) to the forefront, as an alternative — albeit more reliable — foundation of certainty.

SEP

Rather, they are intended to contribute to a reliable conceptual foundation for research and tool development that may aim more directly at supporting design practice.

Design Studies

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about abstract topics, consider using "a reliable foundation" to highlight a strong, dependable starting point or basis.

Common error

Avoid using "a reliable foundation" in very informal or casual conversation; simpler terms like "good start" or "solid base" might be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a reliable foundation" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where "reliable" is an adjective modifying the noun "foundation". According to Ludwig, this phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used. Examples show it acting as the subject complement or object of a preposition.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

33%

News & Media

33%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a reliable foundation" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase that emphasizes the importance of a dependable base for various endeavors. As Ludwig AI indicates, its versatility allows it to be used in diverse contexts, ranging from scientific research to personal relationships. The phrase's register is generally neutral to formal, making it suitable for professional and academic writing, though possibly less appropriate for casual conversation. Its prevalence in sources like The Guardian, ScienceDirect, and The New York Times highlights its broad acceptance and usage across various domains. Alternatives such as ""a solid base"" or ""a firm footing"" can provide nuanced variations in meaning, depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a solid base

Replaces "foundation" with "base", implying a strong and stable starting point.

a firm footing

Emphasizes stability and security, suitable when the subject involves progress or advancement.

a dependable groundwork

Substitutes both adjectives and the noun. "Dependable" stresses trustworthiness, while "groundwork" focuses on preliminary work.

a trustworthy basis

Replaces "foundation" with "basis", which refers to the underlying support or reason for something.

a secure platform

Implies a stable and safe environment for launching or building something.

a sound infrastructure

More appropriate when referring to systems or organizations rather than abstract concepts.

a robust framework

Highlights the strength and resilience of the underlying structure.

a resilient substructure

Used in technical or engineering contexts to denote a load-bearing component.

a stable support system

Focuses on the role of the foundation in providing support and stability.

a validated premise

More fitting when dealing with logical arguments or theories where the starting point needs verification.

FAQs

How can I use "a reliable foundation" in a sentence?

You can use "a reliable foundation" to describe a strong basis or starting point for something. For example, "A strong education provides "a reliable foundation" for future success."

What can I say instead of "a reliable foundation"?

You can use alternatives like "a solid base", "a firm footing", or "a trustworthy basis" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "a reliable foundation"?

It's appropriate in formal and semi-formal contexts when discussing something that needs a strong, dependable base, such as arguments, structures, or relationships. It may be too formal for casual conversation.

What's the difference between "a reliable foundation" and "a sound foundation"?

While both convey a sense of stability and strength, "a reliable foundation" emphasizes trustworthiness and dependability, whereas "a sound foundation" highlights the quality and solidity of the base.