foundational understanding of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "foundational understanding of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the basic knowledge or principles that serve as the basis for further learning or development in a particular subject or field. Example: "To excel in advanced mathematics, one must first have a foundational understanding of algebra and geometry."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

25 human-written examples

I think his foundational understanding of science, technology and people formed a foundation for how to see the world with insight.

TechCrunch

The Nation says the Roberts court "bulldozed the foundational understanding of the corporation that had governed American law for two centuries" with Citizens United, allowing CEOs "to reach into their corporate treasuries to bankroll campaigns promoting or opposing the election of candidates for Congress or president".

The New York Times

These results provide a foundational understanding of the microbial structure and reaction kinetics in such systems.

Bioresource Technology

Student knowledge was significantly improved through a number of inquiry activities that strengthened their foundational understanding of evolution.

Evolution: Education and Outreach

Implementation of integrated STEM involves the inherent challenge of supporting a strong conceptual and foundational understanding of key concepts within multiple disciplines.

International Journal of STEM Education

Building a strategic approach to integrating STEM concepts requires strong conceptual and foundational understanding of how students learn and apply STEM content.

International Journal of STEM Education

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

35 human-written examples

The results provide a foundational understanding on the thermal mechanical characteristics of superalloy honeycomb-core sandwich panels, which is essential to the structural design of a superalloy honeycomb sandwich thermal protection system.

Materials & Design

Further, when that legislation involves the pretty much wholesale re-thinking of the foundational understandings on which our subject is based – I wouldn't say "cherished" nor unproblematic, but that's not the point – that does not so much deserve as demand full debate and consultation.

The Guardian

The following sections both unpack our foundational understanding and outline directions for the emergence of such a people-centric practice of HPSR.

Health Research Policy and Systems

But all that research is built on the foundational understanding that video games matter to people.

Huffington Post

Sacraments are foundational to our understanding of God at work in the world, so significant conformity is expected, but we are also a tradition that takes our lived reality seriously.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "foundational understanding of" when emphasizing that the knowledge being discussed is a necessary prerequisite for further learning or development in a specific area.

Common error

Avoid using "foundational understanding of" when referring to overly complex or nuanced topics. This phrase best suits the explanation of fundamental, introductory knowledge.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "foundational understanding of" functions as a noun modifier, specifying the type of understanding being discussed. Ludwig AI indicates the phrase is grammatically sound and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

44%

News & Media

33%

Formal & Business

23%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "foundational understanding of" is a phrase used to emphasize the critical need for basic knowledge in a particular area. As Ludwig AI states, it is grammatically correct and widely accepted. It's commonly found in scientific, news, and formal contexts, denoting the prerequisite comprehension required for advanced learning. When using this phrase, make sure to apply it to situations where establishing a base of knowledge is truly essential before moving forward.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

fundamental knowledge of

Emphasizes the essential and core information one needs to know.

first principles of

Focuses on the fundamental assumptions or axioms of a subject.

basic grasp of

Focuses on having a primary hold or initial acquaintance with the concept.

introductory knowledge of

Focuses on the initial or preliminary information about a subject.

essential elements of

Highlights the indispensable components required for understanding.

rudimentary comprehension of

Highlights an elementary or initial level of understanding.

primary awareness of

Emphasizes being initially conscious or informed about a topic.

elementary insight into

Implies a simple yet clear perception or grasp of the basics.

initial familiarization with

Implies becoming acquainted with something for the first time.

core principles of

Concentrates on the key concepts or doctrines of a subject.

FAQs

How can I use "foundational understanding of" in a sentence?

You can use "foundational understanding of" to indicate a basic comprehension necessary for further learning. For example, "A "foundational understanding of" algebra is necessary to understand calculus."

What phrases are similar to "foundational understanding of"?

Similar phrases include "basic grasp of", "fundamental knowledge of", or "rudimentary comprehension of", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "basic understanding of" or "foundational understanding of"?

"Foundational understanding of" emphasizes that the understanding is a necessary base for future knowledge, whereas "basic understanding of" simply indicates a rudimentary grasp of the subject.

What is the importance of having a "foundational understanding of" a subject?

A ""foundational understanding of"" a subject ensures that you have the fundamental knowledge required to build upon, enabling you to learn more complex aspects of the topic effectively.