build foundation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "build foundation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the process of establishing a basis or groundwork for something future. For example, "We need to build a strong foundation upon which we can continue to grow our business."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Build foundation.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

They helped build foundations for the Brooklyn Bridge, the Woolworth Building and many other structures.

The New York Times

Competing in global value chains can build foundations and learning.

Journal of Innovation and Entrepreneurship

"We need to build foundations and establish a legacy," he said.

BBC

We have to build foundations to put those results in place.

BBC

"The way to expand is build foundations and invest in youth.

BBC

Later, settlers used its stones to build foundations for houses or tore it down to plant crops.

Los Angeles Times

The dissemination of key findings through key advisory/research institutions will also increase the awareness nationally/globally and build foundations for future competitive research funding.

BMJ Open

These science-related activities will help build foundations for your child's future scientific endeavors.

WikiHow

Having built foundations and laid power cables back to the land, it makes sense to keep using them.

The Guardian

Health and wellness fads have built foundations for viable business models in today's global economy.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "build foundation" when you want to emphasize the active process of creating a base for future development. For example, "We need to "build foundation" upon which we can grow our business".

Common error

Avoid using "build foundation" in excessively abstract or metaphorical contexts where a more precise term might be more effective. Overusing this phrase in such contexts can dilute its impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "build foundation" functions primarily as a verb phrase. As Ludwig AI confirms, it describes the action of establishing a basis or groundwork, whether literal (as in constructing a building's foundation) or figurative (as in establishing a basis for learning or growth).

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

33%

Wiki

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

9%

Academia

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "build foundation" is a versatile and commonly used expression that describes the act of establishing a base or groundwork for future development. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and applicable in both literal and figurative contexts. While it appears frequently in "News & Media", "Science", and "Wiki" sources, it is appropriate for a range of registers and writing styles. When using the phrase, consider the specific context and aim to balance its descriptive power with other related alternatives like "lay the groundwork" or "establish a basis" for enhanced clarity and precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

create a foundation

Similar meaning, but uses "create" instead of "build".

lay the groundwork

Focuses more on preparatory actions.

put in place the foundations

Emphasizes the act of implementing the core elements.

establish a basis

Emphasizes creating a starting point or principle.

construct the framework

Highlights the structural aspect of building a foundation.

develop the basis

Focuses on the progressive development of a foundation.

set the stage

Implies preparing for a particular event or outcome.

form the infrastructure

Highlights the creation of underlying systems or structures.

engineer the base

Highlights the more technical and methodological way to build the base.

underpin

More concise and formal way of saying establish a foundation.

FAQs

What does it mean to "build foundation"?

To "build foundation" means to establish a solid base or groundwork for something, whether it's a physical structure or an abstract concept like a business or a relationship.

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

You might say, "The company is working hard to "build foundation" for long-term success" or "We need to "build foundation" of trust before we can move forward".

What are some alternatives to "build foundation"?

You can use alternatives like "lay the groundwork", "establish a basis", or "create a foundation" depending on the context.

Is it better to use "build foundation" or "create foundation"?

Both "build foundation" and "create foundation" are correct. "Build" emphasizes the active process of construction, while "create" focuses on the result of bringing something into existence. The best choice depends on the specific context.