basis of existence

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "basis of existence" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing fundamental principles or reasons for being, often in philosophical or existential contexts. Example: "The search for the basis of existence has puzzled philosophers for centuries."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

This is a way of defying the very basis of existence, of challenging higher powers, wherever they may be".

The New York Times

Given that poverty-prevention has been declared a top priority, one simply cannot take families' basis of existence away without offering alternative income options.

IZA Journal of Labor Policy

If this was ignored, the basis of existence for many anticommunist films, as well as art films, would have been threatened in popular culture.

Asian Journal of German and European Studies

But as a matter of fact, space is the basis of existence.

Vice

Metaphysics is referenced in this episode by Wesley Crusher, who asks if thought is the basis of existence.

Wikipedia

"It is the great powers which lack the real basis of existence and are without autochthonous, self-sustaining sources of strength.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

"Rosemarie Trockel: A Cosmos" presents an artist less interested in her professional standing than in presenting art as inextricably enmeshed — physically, politically and psychically — not just in life but also in the natural world that is, ultimately, the basis of all existence.

The New York Times - Arts

Through the Yijing, Shao developed his theories that numbers are the basis of all existence.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Head teachers, doctors, youth leaders, sports club managers and others, including landlords, are notified on a confidential basis of the existence of a local sex offender.

The Guardian

Head teachers, doctors, youth leaders, sports club managers and others are notified on a confidential basis of the existence of a local sex offender.

The Guardian

"Our common focus is to help the Iraqi people, and to wipe out the traces of Saddam Hussein's monstrous dictatorship and build a new basis of peaceful existence," Maj.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "basis of existence" when discussing the fundamental reason or foundation for something's being. It's particularly suitable for philosophical, existential, or theoretical contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "basis of existence" in everyday conversations or writing where simpler terms like 'reason' or 'foundation' would be more appropriate. Overusing it can make your writing sound unnecessarily complex.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "basis of existence" functions as a noun phrase, acting as a subject complement or object in a sentence. Ludwig indicates its use in discussing fundamental principles or reasons for being. It identifies what something relies on to be.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

50%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "basis of existence" is a noun phrase used to describe the fundamental principles or reasons underlying something's being. Ludwig confirms that it is correct and usable in written English, particularly in philosophical, existential, and theoretical contexts. While not incorrect, it is better to use it in more formal settings, and it is considered uncommon. Alternatives like "foundation of existence" or "reason for existence" can provide similar meanings. Its usage is observed primarily in Science and News & Media sources. The phrase functions to explain the foundational reasons something exists, suitable for analytical language.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

foundation of existence

Replaces 'basis' with 'foundation', emphasizing the fundamental support or groundwork.

ground of existence

Substitutes 'basis' with 'ground', highlighting the underlying reason or justification.

core of existence

Replaces 'basis' with 'core', focusing on the essential or central element.

essence of existence

Substitutes 'basis' with 'essence', stressing the intrinsic nature or quality.

reason for existence

Replaces 'basis of' with 'reason for', explicitly stating the cause or purpose.

underlying principle of existence

Expands the phrase to include 'underlying principle', emphasizing the fundamental rule or law.

source of existence

Replaces 'basis' with 'source', indicating the origin or starting point.

fundamental element of existence

Expands the phrase to include 'fundamental element', highlighting the essential component.

bedrock of existence

Substitutes 'basis' with 'bedrock', conveying a sense of solid, unshakeable foundation.

precondition for existence

Replaces 'basis' with 'precondition', emphasizing a necessary condition or prerequisite.

FAQs

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

You can use "basis of existence" to refer to the fundamental principles or reasons why something exists. For instance, "The scientist explored the genetic basis of existence." or "Mutual respect forms the basis of existence of our community."

What is a good alternative to "basis of existence"?

Alternatives include "foundation of existence", "ground of existence", or "reason for existence", depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

Is "basis of existence" formal or informal?

"Basis of existence" is generally considered a formal phrase, suitable for academic, scientific, or philosophical discussions. Simpler terms might be preferable in informal contexts.

What's the difference between "basis of existence" and "essence of existence"?

"Basis of existence" refers to the underlying support or reason for something's being, while "essence of existence" refers to its intrinsic nature or most important quality. The former is about the foundation, the latter about the core characteristics.