basis of civilisation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "basis of civilisation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing fundamental elements or principles that support or form the foundation of a society or culture. Example: "Education is often considered the basis of civilisation, as it fosters knowledge and critical thinking among individuals."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

WHAT is the basis of civilisation?

The Economist

If you allow the law of the jungle, you will get the consequences of the jungle, so governments of all persuasions create the basis of civilisation, which is stopping people doing terrible things at the extreme.

The Guardian

But the robbers and sultans have more in common than most: they are the Übermenschen of the past 200 years of American capitalism, the people who feel the future in their bones, bring it into being and sometimes go too far.The most striking similarity is that they refashioned the material basis of civilisation.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Time was when the radical left was the force attacking the Enlightenment basis of western civilisation and challenging the mores and landmarks of day-to-day life.

The Guardian - Opinion

It's past time for a discussion of APM that begins with an understanding of what the technology is, its physical basis, and how it could transform the material basis of human civilisation.

The Guardian

Such a rise – which would be much higher nearer the poles – would have cataclysmic and irreversible consequences for the Earth, making large parts of the planet uninhabitable and threatening the basis of human civilisation.

Independent

Environmentalism posed a particular threat because it called into question the benign nature of the system not from the perspective of an oppressed group but from the perspective of science, the very basis of Western civilisation.

The Guardian - Books

The alliance urged the Boy Scouts of America against ending its policy of refusing membership to individuals who are openly gay, suggesting the decision was of such importance that it could put at risk "the right to maintain moral values that form the basis of western civilisation".

The Guardian

One of the first political reactions to the attacks was a moderate status posted by our president, Klaus Iohannis, which culminated with the idea that "religious and ethnic tolerance, as well as free speech, are the basis of modern civilisation, which is built on democratic principles".

Vice

His spiritual feat of adopting Orthodoxy predetermined the overall basis of the culture, civilisation and human values that unite the peoples of Russia, Ukraine and Belarus.

BBC

"To me, this is the basis for civilisation: a bunch of strangers living together," he says.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing societal development, use "basis of civilisation" to refer to the core elements that enable complex social structures.

Common error

Avoid using "basis of civilisation" in trivial contexts. Reserve it for discussions where you're genuinely referring to fundamental societal elements, not just everyday conveniences.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "basis of civilisation" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It identifies the essential elements or principles that underpin a developed society.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "basis of civilisation" is a noun phrase used to denote the core principles or elements that support an advanced society. Ludwig AI analysis shows the phrase to be grammatically correct and primarily found in news and media, as well as scientific contexts. While the frequency is rare, the phrase's impact is significant, prompting discussions about fundamental societal values. Alternatives include "foundation of civilisation", offering slight variations in emphasis. Remember to use the phrase appropriately, reserving it for discussions concerning core societal elements.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Foundation of civilisation

Replaces "basis" with "foundation", emphasizing the supporting structure of civilisation.

Underpinnings of civilisation

Uses "underpinnings" to highlight the less visible, yet crucial, elements that support civilisation.

Cornerstone of civilisation

Substitutes "basis" with "cornerstone", indicating a fundamental and indispensable component of civilisation.

Essential elements of civilisation

Rephrases the idea to focus on the "essential elements", changing the grammatical structure.

Fundamental principles of civilisation

Replaces "basis" with "fundamental principles", shifting the focus to guiding ideologies.

Core values of civilisation

Focuses on the "core values" that act as the basis, highlighting ethical and moral foundations.

Vital components of civilisation

Uses "vital components" to emphasize the necessary parts that constitute civilisation.

Building blocks of civilisation

Employs "building blocks" to illustrate the idea of gradual construction and essential elements.

Groundwork for civilisation

Replaces "basis" with "groundwork", stressing the preparatory work needed for civilisation.

Primary drivers of civilisation

Shifts the perspective to "primary drivers", emphasizing the forces that propel civilisation forward.

FAQs

What does "basis of civilisation" mean?

The "basis of civilisation" refers to the fundamental principles, elements, or conditions necessary for the development and maintenance of an organized and advanced society. It encompasses factors like morality, material resources, and shared culture.

How can I use "basis of civilisation" in a sentence?

You can use "basis of civilisation" to discuss foundational concepts. For example: "Stopping people from doing terrible things at the extreme is the "basis of civilisation"."

What are some alternatives to "basis of civilisation"?

Some alternatives include "foundation of civilisation", "underpinnings of civilisation", or "cornerstone of civilisation", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it more appropriate to say "basis of civilisation" or "foundations of civilisation"?

Both "basis of civilisation" and "foundations of civilisation" are acceptable. "Basis" emphasizes a singular, underlying element, while "foundations" suggests multiple supporting elements.