a substantial foundation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a substantial foundation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the basis or groundwork of an idea, argument, or structure that is significant or considerable in size or importance. Example: "The research provided a substantial foundation for the development of new policies in education."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

A substantial foundation of Pakistani institutions and infrastructure exists on which to build.

The New York Times

But there could be a "differentiated" EU in which some countries push towards integration, while preserving a "substantial foundation which must remain common competences".

The Economist

"Our scoping paper lays a substantial foundation for a clear, modern statute providing a coherent scheme of structured, clearly defined offences that can be readily understood and efficiently prosecuted.

The Guardian

The material factor of architecture decoration is a substantial foundation for the existence of architecture beauty, and reflects the traditional concept of different schools and culture in the areas of architecture materials and constructive technology.

Procedia Engineering

The work builds on a substantial foundation of bioinformatics approaches to regulatory sequence analysis.

BMC Genomics

The definite antitumor effect of CFCT in vivo provided a substantial foundation for the further development of new chemopreventive lead compounds from C. taii.

BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

Once you've got your base down, be it a tinted moisturizer or a more substantial foundation applied sparingly, the checklist is fairly unintimidating: concealer, to be applied only where needed after foundation, when you're less likely to overdo it.

The New York Times

For this contribution to understanding ourselves, we are in their debt in helping us find a more substantial foundation for what we hold true.

Huffington Post

The second strategic goal has been to build a substantial financial foundation for our investors and more importantly, our investors' investors.

TechCrunch

Armstrong, of course, doesn't make too much of a reference to this in his memo to staff, which came out this morning, except to note that one goal at the company has been to build a "substantial financial foundation for our investors and more importantly, our investors' investors".

TechCrunch

Hubristic pride, as Dr. Tracy calls it, is closer to arrogance or narcissism, pride without substantial foundation.

The New York Times - Health

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a substantial foundation", ensure the subsequent elements built upon it are proportionate in significance. Overstating the superstructure can diminish the credibility of the foundation itself.

Common error

Avoid using "a substantial foundation" to describe trivial or insignificant beginnings. The term implies a considerable base, so ensure its magnitude aligns with the context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a substantial foundation" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the subject complement or object in a sentence. As Ludwig AI confirms, it denotes a significant or considerable base upon which something is built or developed.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

40%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a substantial foundation" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase that signifies a significant base or groundwork. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's appropriate for describing a solid base for an idea, argument, building, or system. The phrase is commonly found in scientific and news contexts and carries a formal tone. When using this phrase, ensure that the subsequent elements align in significance to maintain credibility. Consider alternatives like "a solid groundwork" or "a firm basis" for similar meanings, and be mindful of overstating its importance in informal contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a solid groundwork

Emphasizes the practical and firm nature of the base.

a firm basis

Highlights the stability and reliability of the underlying support.

a sound footing

Implies a secure and stable initial position.

a significant basis

Focuses on the importance and weight of the foundation.

a considerable base

Highlights the size or extent of the foundational element.

a robust platform

Suggests a strong and resilient base for further development.

a dependable substructure

Emphasizes the reliability and support provided by the underlying structure.

a stable undergirding

Focuses on the supportive and strengthening nature of the foundation.

a resilient infrastructure

Highlights the ability of the foundational elements to withstand challenges.

a comprehensive framework

Emphasizes the completeness and thoroughness of the foundational structure.

FAQs

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

You can use "a substantial foundation" to describe a solid base for an idea, argument, building, or system. For example: "The research provided "a substantial foundation" for future studies."

What phrases are similar in meaning to "a substantial foundation"?

Alternatives include "a solid groundwork", "a firm basis", or "a sound footing", each implying a strong underlying support.

Is it appropriate to use "a substantial foundation" in informal writing?

While "a substantial foundation" isn't overly formal, alternatives like "a good start" or "a solid base" might be more suitable for informal contexts, depending on the intended tone.

What is the difference between "a substantial foundation" and "a basic foundation"?

"A basic foundation" suggests a minimal or rudimentary starting point, whereas "a substantial foundation" implies a more significant, robust, and well-developed groundwork.