a sound basis

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a sound basis" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It can be used to mean a strong or solid foundation or starting point. Example: "To build a successful business, it is important to have a sound basis of knowledge and experience in the industry."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But gambling is not a sound basis for policymaking.

The New York Times

Discounting inconvenient facts is not a sound basis for policymaking.

The Guardian

But nostalgia is seldom a sound basis for policy.

The Economist

This is hardly a sound basis for a sustainable recovery.

The Economist

To put Social Security on a sound basis indefinitely, significantly larger sums are needed.

The New York Times

Yet those principles can provide a sound basis for no-buy lists.

The New York Times

But does the "right to be forgotten" really have a sound basis?

The Guardian - Opinion

"Stigma and exclusion are not a sound basis for immigration policy," Ms. Tiven said.

The New York Times

Photographs shared on social media are not a sound basis for making foreign policy, of course.

The New Yorker

But wishful thinking about North Korea's intentions is not a sound basis for policy making.

The New York Times

"We are not convinced that any of these proposals have a sound basis," said Mr. Coke.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a sound basis", ensure that the basis you are referring to is well-supported by evidence or reasoning. This strengthens the credibility of your argument or statement.

Common error

Avoid using "a sound basis" when the foundation is weak or lacks sufficient evidence. Overstating the strength of the basis can undermine your credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a sound basis" functions as a noun phrase that typically serves as the subject complement or object of a preposition. It describes the foundation or justification upon which something is built or argued. As Ludwig AI points out, it's a correct and commonly used phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

37%

News & Media

34%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a sound basis" is a commonly used and grammatically correct phrase that signifies a strong and reliable foundation. Ludwig AI confirms its accuracy and frequent usage. It is most often found in scientific, news, and formal business contexts, indicating its utility in reasoned and evidence-based discourse. To ensure clear and credible communication, use "a sound basis" when referring to foundations that are well-supported by evidence and avoid overstating the strength of the basis when it's weak or unsubstantiated.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a valid foundation

Emphasizes the legitimacy and correctness of the foundation.

a reasonable justification

Focuses on the logical and rational support for an argument or decision.

a reliable groundwork

Highlights the dependability and trustworthiness of the groundwork.

a proper rationale

Stresses the suitability and appropriateness of the rationale.

a correct premise

Underlines the accuracy and truthfulness of the premise.

a judicious underpinning

Implies careful and wise consideration in the underpinning.

a sensible rationale

Highlights the practicality and common sense of the rationale.

a solid justification

Indicates the strength and robustness of the justification.

a satisfactory platform

Highlights the adequacy and suitability of the platform.

a strong rationale

Emphasizes the forcefulness and persuasiveness of the rationale.

FAQs

How can I use "a sound basis" in a sentence?

You can use "a sound basis" to indicate that something is based on solid reasoning or evidence. For example, "The research provides "a sound basis" for policy changes".

What are some alternatives to saying "a sound basis"?

Alternatives include "a valid foundation", "a reasonable justification", or "a reliable groundwork". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to say "sound basis" or "solid basis"?

Both "sound basis" and "solid basis" are acceptable and convey a similar meaning. "Sound" often implies thoroughness and reliability, while "solid" emphasizes strength and stability. Use the one that fits the context best.

When is it inappropriate to use the phrase "a sound basis"?

It's inappropriate to use "a sound basis" when the supporting evidence is weak, unreliable, or non-existent. Using the phrase in such cases can mislead the reader.