basic tool

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "basic tool" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a fundamental instrument or resource that is essential for a particular task or activity. Example: "A calculator is a basic tool for anyone studying mathematics."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"It's a basic tool.

The New Yorker

Analogy is a basic tool of teaching.

The New York Times

The black marker pen is the sanitizer's most basic tool.

The New Yorker

Stop-and-frisk is such a basic tool of policing.

The New Yorker

It is a basic tool in an increasingly interconnected world.

The New York Times

Mathematics is a basic tool in optimization and modeling.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The most basic tool of democracy is our vote, fairly counted.

The New York Times

That is perhaps the most basic tool in vetting companies and ensuring integrity.

The New York Times

The Nupe farmers practice shifting cultivation, using the hoe as their basic tool.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Some are unresponsive to the most basic tool of therapy – speech.

Independent

PandaPowVPN is a basic tool for Android, and costs $84 annually, or $9 a month.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "basic tool" when you want to emphasize the fundamental or essential nature of something, rather than its complexity or sophistication.

Common error

Avoid using "basic tool" too generically. Always specify what the tool is and its purpose to avoid ambiguity. For example, instead of saying "Communication is a basic tool", specify "Effective communication is a basic tool for project management".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "basic tool" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or object, identifying something as a fundamental and indispensable resource. Ludwig AI supports this by showcasing its use across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

45%

News & Media

35%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

1%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "basic tool" is a noun phrase used to describe something fundamental and essential. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and frequently used across various domains, especially in science, news, and encyclopedias. While appropriate for both formal and informal contexts, it's important to provide specific context to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives such as "essential instrument" or "fundamental resource" can be used for variety. The versatility and frequent usage of "basic tool" makes it a valuable addition to one's vocabulary.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

essential instrument

Emphasizes the necessity of the instrument for a particular purpose.

fundamental resource

Highlights the resource's foundational role.

foundational instrument

Similar to "fundamental resource" but emphasizes its role as a base.

core component

Focuses on the tool as a vital part of a larger system.

critical asset

Highlights the tool's value and importance.

key element

Underlines the importance of the tool as one of the most important.

staple implement

Conveys the tool's common and regular use.

primary means

Stresses that the tool serves as the main way of achieving something.

principal mechanism

Emphasizes the tool's role in a process or system.

elementary apparatus

Suggests simplicity and fundamental nature.

FAQs

How can I use "basic tool" in a sentence?

You can use "basic tool" to describe something fundamental and essential for a particular task. For example, "Stop-and-frisk is such a "basic tool" of policing" or "Mathematics is a "basic tool" in optimization and modeling".

What are some alternatives to "basic tool"?

Alternatives include "essential instrument", "fundamental resource", or "core component" depending on the specific context.

Is "basic tool" formal or informal?

"Basic tool" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. Its appropriateness depends more on the surrounding language and the overall tone of the writing.

What makes something a "basic tool"?

A "basic tool" is characterized by its fundamental nature and essential function. It is something that is indispensable for performing a particular task or achieving a specific goal. Its considered the first step or the "essential first step" to achieve an outcome.