as basic as it is

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as basic as it is" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to emphasize the simplicity or fundamental nature of something, often in contrast to a more complex idea or situation. Example: "The concept of gravity is as basic as it is, yet it governs the movement of celestial bodies."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

The overarching goal is as basic as it is fundamental.

The New York Times

But as basic as it is, that template did not come from nowhere.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

And in many ways, @jack's tweet about setting up a twttr our own personal "Arrival of a Train"—needed to be exactly as basic as it was: too trailblazing, too hot a take about how liking Adele is actually extremely political, too viral a photo of someone rearranging items to spell out "DICKCUNT," and we'd all die, unable to cope with these hyper-hot future tweets.

Vice

We promised, on Monday, that we would be resurrecting the Gross Jar (yes, Mr. Uninitiated, the premise is as basic as it sounds: it's a jar, with gross things in it).

Vice

The user interface was about as basic as could be, covered from edge to edge in green gradients.

TechCrunch

This is as basic as it gets: discourse in private spaces discourse is not public.

Huffington Post

Its operation is as basic as its body is robust.

TechCrunch

Luke Plunkett of Kotaku called the game a "perversely addictive thing", and Complexs Jacob Moore said it is "as basic as it can get, but that won't stop you from wasting hours of your day".

Wikipedia

Whether it's through highway travel centers or local corner stores, the money-making formula is as basic as it gets.

Forbes

"Plumbing is as basic as it can get in terms of repair," Ms. Tomé said.

The New York Times

But when it comes to public education, this is as basic as it gets: young people can't learn if they can't get to class.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "as basic as it is" to introduce a surprising or unexpected element connected to something seemingly simple. For instance, "The principle of supply and demand is "as basic as it is", yet it drives global markets."

Common error

Avoid using "as basic as it is" when the simplicity is the primary point and there's no contrasting element to highlight. For example, don't say "Breathing is "as basic as it is" to life"; simply state that breathing is fundamental to life.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as basic as it is" functions as a conjunctive phrase, connecting a statement of simplicity with an implied or expressed contrast. It emphasizes the fundamental nature of something while suggesting it has implications beyond its apparent simplicity, Ludwig confirms its correct use.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "as basic as it is" is a grammatically sound conjunctive phrase used to underscore the importance of a fundamental element, often contrasting it with subsequent complexity. Ludwig confirms its validity. It's most commonly found in news and media contexts, maintaining a neutral register. While not overly common, its usage is appropriate when emphasizing that simplicity does not negate significance. When using the phrase, consider the alternatives, such as "as simple as it is" or "as fundamental as it is", to ensure the most accurate expression of your intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as simple as it is

Focuses more directly on the simplicity aspect, omitting the potential contrast.

as fundamental as it is

Highlights the foundational nature of something, suggesting importance and underlying principles.

as elementary as it is

Similar to "simple" but can also imply a basic level of understanding or skill.

despite its simplicity

Explicitly introduces a contrast, highlighting that something might be more complex than its simplicity suggests.

even though it's basic

Another way to set up a contrast, focusing on the surprising aspects given its fundamental nature.

for all its simplicity

Acknowledges the simplicity but implies that something more can be said about it.

surprisingly basic as it is

Emphasizes the unexpected nature of something being so fundamental.

basic though it may be

Inverts the structure while maintaining the contrast.

simple though it might seem

Highlights the potential for misunderstanding something's apparent simplicity.

uncomplicated as it stands

Emphasizes the lack of complication, often in the face of potential complexities.

FAQs

How can I use "as basic as it is" in a sentence?

Use "as basic as it is" to emphasize the fundamental nature of something, often while contrasting it with a more complex or surprising aspect. For example, "The concept of addition is "as basic as it is", but it's the foundation of all advanced mathematics".

What's a good alternative to "as basic as it is"?

Alternatives include "as simple as it is", "as fundamental as it is", or even "despite its simplicity" depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it always necessary to have a contrasting element when using "as basic as it is"?

While not strictly mandatory, the phrase works best when there's a subtle or explicit contrast. It helps to highlight that something's simplicity belies a greater importance, complexity, or impact. Without a contrast, it might sound redundant.

Can "as basic as it is" be used in formal writing?

Yes, "as basic as it is" is appropriate for formal writing, especially when used to introduce an argument or point where simplicity is deceptive or crucial. It's commonly found in news and media, which tend to maintain a neutral register.