at the basic level

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at the basic level" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a fundamental or foundational aspect of a topic or concept. Example: "At the basic level, understanding the principles of physics is essential for grasping more complex theories."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"At the basic level, of course, curiosity promotes an openness to unfamiliar experiences and information.

The Guardian

What this means, at the basic level, is a new kind of annotation.

The Guardian

At the basic level of core human needs, I think it's very much true, Isaac.

The New Yorker

As soon as anything goes wrong, even at the basic level, we are crippled.

University of California, Berkeley

The four language skills: listening, speaking, reading, and writing are developed at the basic level.

Columbia University

At the basic level of plot, what will happen at Sparta is never really in doubt.

The New York Times

At the basic level, there is the simple question of rents.

The New York Times

Some of that strength comes from her firm grasp of rhythm at the basic level of beat and measure.

The New York Times - Arts

Spouses and domestic partners can obtain health coverage at the basic level at an expense of $1498 per year.

Columbia University

During the year, we had 72 members join at the Basic Level and 32 extend their memberships at a discount.

Harvard University

At the basic level, the rupee falls when more money is coming into the country than what is leaving.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "at the basic level" when introducing a simplified explanation or the most fundamental aspects of a complex topic. For example, "At the basic level, photosynthesis involves converting light energy into chemical energy."

Common error

Avoid using "at the basic level" when the context is already inherently simple. Saying "At the basic level, water is wet" is redundant; the simplicity is self-evident. Instead, reserve the phrase for contexts where clarification or simplification is genuinely needed.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at the basic level" functions as a prepositional phrase that typically modifies a verb or clause. It serves to introduce a simplified explanation or fundamental aspect of a topic. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Academia

31%

Science

30%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "at the basic level" is a versatile prepositional phrase used to introduce fundamental explanations of complex topics. Ludwig AI indicates it is grammatically correct and widely used. It is most frequently found in news, academic, and scientific contexts. When writing, use it to simplify complex information, but avoid overuse in already simple contexts. Alternatives include "on a fundamental level" and "in essence". By understanding its function and purpose, you can effectively incorporate "at the basic level" into your writing to enhance clarity and comprehension.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

on a fundamental level

Replaces "basic" with "fundamental", emphasizing the core nature of something.

in essence

Conveys the most important or central aspect of something.

fundamentally

An adverb form that highlights the underlying principles.

at its core

Emphasizes the central and most important part of something.

in its simplest form

Highlights a simplified or uncomplicated explanation.

at the elementary stage

Focuses on the initial or beginning phase.

in principle

Refers to the basic idea or theory behind something.

as a starting point

Indicates the initial phase of analysis or understanding.

in rudimentary terms

Emphasizes a basic and undeveloped explanation.

on the ground floor

Implies beginning stages or foundational aspects of a project or understanding.

FAQs

How can I use "at the basic level" in a sentence?

Use "at the basic level" to introduce a simplified explanation of a concept. For example, "At the basic level, a computer processes data using binary code."

What are some alternatives to "at the basic level"?

You can use alternatives such as "on a fundamental level", "in essence", or "fundamentally", depending on the context.

Is "at the basic level" formal or informal?

"At the basic level" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, but it's more common in explanatory or educational materials.

What's the difference between "at the basic level" and "on a fundamental level"?

While both phrases are similar, "at the basic level" often implies a simplification or introduction, whereas ""on a fundamental level"" emphasizes core principles or underlying nature.