build a foundation

USAGE SUMMARY

"build a foundation" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase when discussing the importance of starting something on a strong foundation. For example, "If you want your business to succeed, it's important to build a foundation first."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

50 human-written examples

You want to build a foundation".

The Economist

We needed to build a foundation".

The New York Times

These films together help build a foundation for peace.

University of California, Berkeley

Or can they help build a foundation for lasting economic development?

The New York Times

I chose to do that for our program and to build a foundation.

The New York Times - Sports

They are good for people who don't want to build a foundation for a brick unit.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

10 human-written examples

Dunne, 40, built a foundation on defense.

The New York Times - Sports

They've built a foundation stronger than just sexual tension.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

"The real one is one that builds a foundation for practical use and exploration".

The New York Times - Science

I believe we have built a foundation and are on the right path".

The New York Times

"Having guys around like that builds a foundation for the players to carry," Carrier said.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "build a foundation", ensure that the subsequent actions or developments logically follow from the established base. For example, "We must build a foundation of trust before negotiating further."

Common error

Avoid focusing solely on immediate gains when aiming to "build a foundation". The true value of a foundation lies in its capacity to support future growth and withstand potential challenges.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "build a foundation" functions as a verb phrase where "build" is the verb and "a foundation" is the direct object. According to Ludwig AI, it is commonly used to describe the process of establishing a strong base or starting point for future growth or development. The examples show its application in various contexts, reinforcing its role as an action-oriented phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Academia

20%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Science

10%

Wiki

6%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "build a foundation" is a versatile and frequently used phrase that emphasizes the importance of establishing a strong base for future endeavors. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and broad applicability across various contexts, including news, academia, and business. While alternatives like "lay the foundation" or "establish a groundwork" exist, the core meaning remains consistent: to create a stable and supportive structure for subsequent growth. It's essential to consider long-term implications and ensure logical coherence between the foundation and future developments when using this phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Lay the foundation

Uses "lay" instead of "build", which is a more common and direct synonym in this context.

Establish a groundwork

Replaces "build" with "establish" and "foundation" with "groundwork", emphasizing the initial preparation.

Create a basis

Substitutes "foundation" with "basis", highlighting the fundamental nature of what is being built.

Develop a framework

Replaces "foundation" with "framework", suggesting a structured approach to building.

Construct a platform

Uses "construct" as a more formal alternative to "build", and "platform" in place of foundation.

Forge a base

Replaces "build" with "forge", suggesting a more active and transformative process of creation.

Form a bedrock

Uses "bedrock" instead of "foundation", emphasizing the solidity and unshakeable nature of the base.

Set up a structure

Replaces "build a foundation" with a more general term suggesting organisation.

Cultivate a starting point

Implies an incremental and intentional establishment, using 'cultivate' for 'build'.

Pioneer a foothold

Suggests an initial, tentative establishment in a new area or field.

FAQs

How can I use "build a foundation" in a sentence?

You can use "build a foundation" to describe the process of creating a strong base for future success. For example, "Investing in education is crucial to "build a foundation" for a prosperous future."

What are some alternatives to saying "build a foundation"?

Alternatives include "lay the foundation", "establish a groundwork", or "create a basis". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to "build a foundation" or "lay a foundation"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct and widely used. "Lay a foundation" is slightly more common, but "build a foundation" is equally acceptable and conveys the same meaning. They are virtually interchangeable.

What does it mean to "build a foundation" in a relationship?

In the context of relationships, "build a foundation" refers to establishing trust, communication, and mutual respect. It involves creating a stable and supportive environment for the relationship to grow and thrive.