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Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
base of the scale
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "base of the scale" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts related to measurement, evaluation, or ranking systems where a foundational or lowest point is being referenced. Example: "In this grading system, the base of the scale is set at 0, representing the lowest possible score."
✓ Grammatically correct
Science
News & Media
Encyclopedias
Alternative expressions(5)
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
1 human-written examples
This is especially apparent in the angle of attachment of the cone scales to the cone axis, the length and thinness of the cone scale, the size and shape of the ovule, and the position of the ovule at the base of the scale (Fig. 5A, B).
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
59 human-written examples
In the cloud computing platform, it allocates calculation resources base on the scale of the terminal load, thus avoiding the decrease of service quality.
The developmental stages of the apices were determined based on the scale of Gardner et al. [ 51], which takes into account the appearance of new structures.
Science
Apple's point proportions are based on the scale of the human finger and the minimum size of a touch point is defined as 44 points.
News & Media
They are not based on the scale of the work or on different underlying logic of analysis.
People are often only anointed leadership-status based on the scale of their platform.
News & Media
The items for this scale are based on the scale of Naman and Slevin (1993).
Total hardness (TH) was based on the scale of Sawyer et al. (2003).
Science
Commissions on the service begin at 10% for participating restaurants, with the rate likely going down based on the scale of the deployment.
News & Media
The price was not disclosed, but I would guess it's probably somewhere around $100-$100-$200 millioned on the scale of the purchase and the company's year end estimates and necessities.
News & Media
It should have been the second, shouldn't it, based on the scale of the suffering, 640,000 starving kids to one?
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
Consider context. Use other phrases like "bottom", "foot" or "ground level" of a scale when writing about a scale literally used for measuring weight. Consider that these alternatives can't be used in abstract contexts.
Common error
Avoid using "base of the scale" when referring to a physical scale used for measuring weight; instead, use "bottom of the scale" or "surface of the scale" to prevent confusion.
Source & Trust
85%
Authority and reliability
4.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "base of the scale" functions as a prepositional phrase, often used to specify the starting point or foundation within a system of measurement or ranking. It indicates the lowest level or fundamental aspect being considered, as confirmed by Ludwig AI.
Frequent in
Science
30%
News & Media
30%
Encyclopedias
20%
Less common in
Formal & Business
10%
Academia
5%
Wiki
5%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, "base of the scale" is a prepositional phrase used to denote the foundational level within a measurement or ranking system. While considered grammatically correct, it is relatively rare. As Ludwig AI confirms, it serves to establish a point of reference. It is most frequently encountered in scientific and news media contexts. Related phrases include "bottom of the scale" and "lower end of the scale". When using this phrase, be mindful of the context to avoid confusion with physical scales. Although uncommon in everyday conversation, understanding its proper usage can enhance precision in writing and communication.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
bottom of the scale
Replaces "base" with "bottom", emphasizing the lowest position in a scale.
lower end of the scale
Uses "lower end" to indicate the bottom portion of a graduated range.
foundational level of the scale
Substitutes "base" with "foundational level", highlighting the fundamental nature of the starting point.
lowest point on the scale
Emphasizes the minimal value or position within a scale.
starting point of the scale
Focuses on the origin or commencement of the scale.
foot of the scale
Replaces "base" with "foot", offering a more visual and structural metaphor.
origin of the scale
Highlights the commencement or genesis of the scale.
ground level of the scale
Emphasizes the fundamental nature of the starting point by referring to the "ground level".
infrastructure of the scale
Emphasizes the building blocks of any assessment scale.
underlying strata of the scale
Emphasizes the fact that scale and its levels are built upon something tangible.
FAQs
How can I use "base of the scale" in a sentence?
You can use "base of the scale" to describe the lowest level or foundation of a rating or measurement system. For example, "The requirements to enter that competition are at "the base of the scale"".
What are some alternatives to "base of the scale"?
Some alternatives include "bottom of the scale", "lower end of the scale", or "foundational level of the scale depending on the specific context".
Is it correct to say "bottom of the scale" instead of "base of the scale"?
Yes, "bottom of the scale" is often interchangeable with "base of the scale", particularly when discussing a ranking or hierarchical system. However, "base of the scale" might be preferred when emphasizing a foundational aspect.
What's the difference between "base of the scale" and "top of the scale"?
"Base of the scale" refers to the lowest or foundational level, while "top of the scale" indicates the highest or most advanced level. They represent opposite ends of a spectrum or ranking system.
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Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
85%
Authority and reliability
4.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested