forming the basis

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "forming the basis" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it to refer to something that provides the foundation for something else. For example, "The findings of this research are the basis for our proposed plan of action."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

He also bought much of the remaining stock, thus forming the basis and beginning of his collection.

The Guardian

Indeed, they are forming the basis of critical decisions being made on economic and infrastructure development in this country.

The Guardian - Opinion

It's not hard to imagine these statistics forming the basis for another victim-blaming narrative, for instance.

The Guardian - Opinion

However, we need to make sure that the guidance forming the basis of Positive and Safe is practical and workable.

The Guardian

Agriculture is the main occupation, with tobacco and cotton crops forming the basis of much local industry.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Eventually, part of Coke's strategy was to support African-American organizations, forming the basis of its relationship with the N.A.A.C.P.

The New York Times

It now includes a provision that anyone arrested or detained has the right to be made aware of "facts forming the basis for the decision to arrest".

The Guardian

And that is increasingly forming the basis of their attacks on one another as each links his opponent to unpopular presidencies.

The New York Times

But the document was billed as forming the basis of a supposed new era of candour from the company, before investors were led off to see for themselves.

The Guardian - Business

Hormones were the new hot thing for Edwardian slimmers and thyroid extract became a fast fixer of flab, forming the basis of many popular remedies.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

People have found creative ways to recycle old cube sides with the iconic six colours forming the basis for giant pixellated artworks.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "forming the basis" when you want to emphasize that something is the essential foundation or starting point for a larger concept, system, or structure.

Common error

Avoid using "forming the basis" in situations where simpler phrases like "is" or "constitutes" would suffice. Overusing complex phrasing can make your writing sound pretentious.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "forming the basis" functions as a gerund phrase, often acting as a noun or part of a verb phrase. Ludwig indicates its frequent use in describing how something serves as the foundation or core component of something else. It is commonly used to explain the underpinnings of an idea, system, or structure.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

27%

Science

26%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "forming the basis" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase that describes something serving as the foundation or essential component. Ludwig highlights its presence across varied domains from news and media to scientific research, underscoring its versatility. While broadly applicable, it's important to consider the formality of your writing and avoid overuse in contexts where simpler alternatives exist. This phrase is generally suitable for neutral to formal registers, making it a solid choice for analytical and explanatory writing across professional settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

constituting the foundation

Replaces "basis" with "foundation", emphasizing the structural role.

providing the foundation

Focuses on the act of providing the essential support or structure.

establishing the groundwork

Focuses on establishing a foundation for future actions.

laying the groundwork

Uses a more metaphorical expression, emphasizing preparation for future development.

serving as the bedrock

Emphasizes the fundamental and unshakeable nature of the basis.

creating the underpinning

Focuses on the act of creating the support.

underpinning the structure

Highlights the supportive role from beneath.

providing a rationale

Emphasizes a logical justification or reason.

furnishing the rationale

Focuses on the provision of justification for a concept.

acting as a springboard

Implies a starting point for further advancement.

FAQs

How can I use "forming the basis" in a sentence?

You can use "forming the basis" to indicate that something is the foundation or core element of something else. For example, "These principles are "forming the basis" of our strategy".

What are some alternatives to "forming the basis"?

Alternatives include "constituting the foundation", "laying the groundwork", or "providing the foundation", depending on the specific context.

Is there a difference between "forming the basis" and "forms the basis"?

"Forming the basis" is a gerund phrase often used in continuous tenses or as a noun modifier, while "forms the basis" is a verb phrase used in simple present tense to state a fact. For example, "Research is "forming the basis" of our study" versus "This research "forms the basis" of our study".

In what contexts is "forming the basis" most appropriate?

"Forming the basis" is suitable in contexts where you want to emphasize the ongoing process or action of creating a foundation, such as in scientific research, policy development, or strategic planning.