at their base

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at their base" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to the fundamental or foundational level of something, often in a metaphorical sense. Example: "The principles of democracy are rooted at their base in the idea of equality and justice for all."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

They are at their base".

The New York Times

right cones joined together at their base.

Yale University

The marginal paddles are gemmae, falling away at their base.

Cornell University

The soils were subjected to relatively rapid, downward freezing, with access to water at their base.

Cold Regions Science and Technology

In the mammalian intestine, crypts of Leiberkühn house intestinal epithelial stem/progenitor cells at their base.

Cell

At their base lie peaceful pools fringed by white beaches and lush tropical foliage.

The Guardian - Travel

Plus, there was a sexy reporter interviewing soldiers at their base.

The New Yorker

At their base will be 185,000 square feet of retail stores facing the street.

The New York Times

Mancini will keep his squad at their base in Estoril before flying directly to Wales.

Independent

The leafstalks may be vertically arranged and bear thorns or sharp curved prickles at their base.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Thus, the thicknesses of MTDs 5 and 6 might incorporate "in situ" sediments at their base.

Progress in Earth and Planetary Science

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "at their base", ensure the context clearly indicates what the 'base' refers to, whether it's a physical location, a foundational principle, or a starting point.

Common error

Avoid using "at their base" when a more specific term would provide clarity. For example, instead of saying "problems at their base", specify whether the problems are "at the foundation", "at the root", or "at the origin" of the issue.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at their base" primarily functions as a prepositional phrase, modifying a noun or verb by indicating location, origin, or fundamental aspect. Ludwig provides numerous examples demonstrating its use in various contexts, supporting this analysis.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

31%

Science

24%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Academia

12%

Wiki

9%

Formal & Business

9%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "at their base" functions as a prepositional phrase that indicates a location, origin, or foundational aspect. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely applicable across various contexts. While commonly found in News & Media, its usage extends to Science, Encyclopedias, Academia, and other domains. To ensure clarity, specify what the 'base' refers to and avoid using the phrase when a more precise term would enhance understanding. Related phrases include "at its foundation", "at the bottom", and "at the core", each carrying slightly different nuances. By considering these factors, writers can effectively and accurately use "at their base" in their writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at its foundation

Focuses on the underlying structure or principle.

at the bottom

Emphasizes the lowest part or level.

at their origin

Highlights the starting point or source.

at the root

Implies the fundamental cause or essence.

at the core

Suggests the central or most important part.

at the heart

Similar to 'at the core', but with a slightly more emotional connotation.

at the infrastructure

Highlights the basic systems and facilities that serve a country, area, or organization.

at the groundwork

Stresses the preparatory work or foundation laid.

at the starting point

Points to the initial stage or beginning.

on their home territory

Implies the space, area or region in which one has authority.

FAQs

How can I use "at their base" in a sentence?

You can use "at their base" to describe the location of something, such as "The soldiers were stationed at their base", or to refer to the foundation of an idea or system, such as "The principles of democracy are rooted "at its foundation" in equality".

What are some alternatives to saying "at their base"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "at its foundation", "at the bottom", or "at the core" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it correct to say "at it's base" instead of "at their base"?

No, "at it's base" is grammatically incorrect. "It's" is a contraction of "it is" or "it has", while "their" is the possessive pronoun for "they". The correct phrase is "at their base", indicating something belongs to or is associated with a group.

What's the difference between "at its base" and "at their base"?

"At its base" refers to something singular, such as the base of a single mountain. "At their base" refers to something plural, such as the base of multiple mountains, or something belonging to a collective group. For example, "The company's headquarters are located "at their base" in New York City".