get the basics down

USAGE SUMMARY

"get the basics down" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to the process of learning something, particularly a skill or knowledge base. For example: "Before attempting more complex tasks, it's important to make sure you get the basics down."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

It's very hard to take on big policy issues and make major changes if we can't get the basics down".

The New Yorker

Language learning with artificial texts, she argued, will allow you to get the basics down, but it also makes language learning boring.

TechCrunch

"It's important to get the basics down, so then as they grow older, they grow older running with the proper technique and form," Chris Evans said.

Los Angeles Times

You can make your very own specialty nut butters at home -- and once you get the basics down, you'll be equipped to craft any kind of action-packed spread of your dreams.

Huffington Post

Once you get the basics down, make it "hoppy".

WikiHow

As you get the basics down, more of the dream may come to you.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

They've got the basics down already.

TechCrunch

Now that we've got the basics down, let's talk technique.

TechCrunch

"When they're this young, it's about getting the basics down," Howard said later.

Los Angeles Times

Just focus on doing the work; getting the basics down; being in the moment; and you will get there when you're ready - rather than rushing and making a situation worse.

Huffington Post

You have got the basics down, so now it's time focus on the details.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When teaching a new skill, ensure learners "get the basics down" before moving on to advanced techniques. This builds a solid foundation for future learning.

Common error

Avoid rushing into complex topics without ensuring a solid understanding of the basics. This can lead to confusion and hinder long-term progress.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "get the basics down" functions as a directive or an assertion, highlighting the necessity of mastering foundational knowledge or skills before progressing to more complex tasks. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a valid and common phrase.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Wiki

36%

News & Media

52%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "get the basics down" is a common and correct expression used to emphasize the importance of acquiring fundamental knowledge or skills before moving on to more advanced topics. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's suitable for use in various contexts, particularly in instructional or advisory settings. The phrase functions primarily as a directive or assertion, aiming to persuade or instruct individuals to prioritize core principles. While its register leans towards neutral to informal, it remains applicable in professional environments where skill development is discussed. The phrase's high frequency across diverse sources, including news media and instructional websites, underscores its widespread acceptance and relevance. When using this phrase, consider it as a call to solidifying core comprehension before escalating complexity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

master the fundamentals

Emphasizes a higher level of proficiency compared to simply understanding the basics.

grasp the essentials

Focuses on understanding the core components rather than just learning them.

learn the groundwork

Highlights the preparatory nature of acquiring basic knowledge.

understand the principles

Emphasizes the theoretical understanding of fundamental concepts.

acquire foundational knowledge

More formal phrasing emphasizing the knowledge aspect.

get a handle on the rudiments

Uses a more idiomatic expression for understanding basic elements.

become familiar with the basics

Highlights the process of becoming acquainted with fundamental aspects.

get acquainted with the elements

Focuses on getting familiar with a basic part of something.

learn the ropes

More colloquial term focusing on learning how something operates from the start.

nail the fundamentals

Highlights doing well when learning something very important.

FAQs

How can I use "get the basics down" in a sentence?

You can use "get the basics down" to emphasize the importance of understanding fundamental concepts before advancing to more complex material. For instance, "It's crucial to "master the fundamentals" before attempting advanced techniques."

What's a good alternative to "get the basics down"?

Alternatives include phrases like "grasp the essentials", "learn the groundwork", or "understand the principles", each emphasizing a slightly different aspect of acquiring fundamental knowledge.

Is it better to "get the basics down" or "master the fundamentals"?

"Get the basics down" implies an initial understanding, while ""master the fundamentals"" suggests a deeper proficiency. The choice depends on the level of expertise you want to convey.

How does "getting the basics down" help in learning a new skill?

"Getting the basics down" provides a solid foundation, enabling you to build upon your knowledge and tackle more complex tasks with confidence. Without it, you might struggle with advanced concepts.