base of the neck

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "base of the neck" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to the anatomical area where the neck meets the shoulders, often in medical or anatomical contexts. Example: "The patient reported pain at the base of the neck, which may indicate a muscle strain."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The first shot, therefore, must sever the spine at the base of the neck or the tail, paralyzing the animal.

The New Yorker

The odor of aftershave permeating a bedroom at 3 A.M. A blade at the base of the neck.

The New Yorker

When the egg is fertilized, the base of the neck closes, and the embryo develops within the expanding venter.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Ladle hot jam into jars just up to the base of the neck, leaving 1/2 inch at the top.

The New York Times - Food

For closer inspection, the head was pried off, and she said the base of the neck was exactly the way she had hand-shaped it.

The New York Times

Working with his longtime designer, Milton Glaser, Mr. Hindy came up with an amber bottle design featuring a double embossed ring at the base of the neck.

The New York Times

This butterfly-shaped gland at the base of the neck manufactures key hormones, thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), which affect metabolism, growth, nerves, muscles and circulation.

The New York Times - Health

The Chiefs' team doctor, Dr. Jon Browne, said Thomas's spine was broken at the base of the neck and in the middle of the back.

The New York Times - Sports

Located near the base of the neck, the thyroid is a large endocrine gland that produces hormones that help control growth and metabolism.

The New York Times - Science

And there was a soft tissue mass at the base of the neck that measured 10 centimeters in diameter and was raised a couple of centimeters.

The New York Times

These vessels converge to form one of two large vessels called lymphatic trunks, which are connected to veins at the base of the neck.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing medical conditions or injuries, be specific about the location at the "base of the neck" to avoid ambiguity. For example, clarify if the issue is anterior, posterior, or lateral.

Common error

Don't use "base of the neck" interchangeably with the entire neck region. The phrase specifically refers to the lower part where it connects to the shoulders and upper back.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "base of the neck" functions primarily as a noun phrase, typically used as an adverbial of location to specify where something is situated. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is correct and usable in written English. For example, "a soft tissue mass at the base of the neck" specifies the location of the mass.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

30%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

10%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "base of the neck" is a common and grammatically correct noun phrase used to denote the anatomical location where the neck connects to the shoulders and upper back. Ludwig AI validates its proper usage in diverse contexts. Predominantly found in news, scientific, and encyclopedic sources, it serves to provide precise localization in descriptions of injuries, medical conditions, and anatomical features. While "base of the neck" maintains a neutral to formal register, related phrases such as "nape of the neck" or "cervical base" offer alternative descriptions with slight variations in formality or specificity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

bottom of the neck

This is a more literal and straightforward alternative.

neck's lower part

Rearranges the words slightly while maintaining the same meaning.

cervical base

This alternative uses a more technical, medical term to refer to the base of the neck.

root of the neck

This is a more figurative way to refer to the base, implying origin or starting point.

nape of the neck

This refers specifically to the back of the neck, close to the base.

inferior neck area

Uses "inferior" as a directional term in anatomy, referring to the lower part.

lower neck region

This alternative describes the area in a less precise, more general way.

proximal neck region

Uses 'proximal' to indicate the part of the neck closest to the body's core.

junction of neck and shoulders

Describes the area as the meeting point of the neck and shoulders.

neck's attachment point

Focuses on where the neck connects to the rest of the body.

FAQs

How can I describe a location near the "base of the neck" without using the phrase directly?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "lower cervical region", "nape of the neck", or "where the neck meets the shoulders" to provide a clear description.

What is the difference between the "base of the neck" and the nape of the neck?

The "base of the neck" refers generally to the area where the neck connects to the shoulders and upper back. The "nape of the neck" specifically refers to the back of the neck.

Is it appropriate to use "base of the neck" in formal writing?

Yes, "base of the neck" is appropriate in formal writing, especially in medical or anatomical contexts. However, consider the audience and purpose; more technical terms like "lower cervical region" might be preferable in some cases.

What anatomical structures are typically located near the "base of the neck"?

The "base of the neck" is near structures like the thyroid gland, trachea, esophagus, major blood vessels (such as the carotid artery and jugular vein), and the upper part of the spinal column.