getting back to basics

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "getting back to basics" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a return to fundamental principles or core ideas, often in the context of simplifying or refocusing efforts. Example: "In times of uncertainty, it's essential for us to start getting back to basics and focus on our core values."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

Greece is getting back to basics.

The New York Times

Gerbase, too, is getting back to basics.

Independent

Let's start by getting back to basics.

The Guardian - Music

Now it's getting back to basics again.

The New York Times

Re "Getting Back to Basics, C.I.A.

The New York Times

Getting back to basics does not mean throwing more bombs.

The New York Times

Grant said the Giants were getting back to basics.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

"We would talk about getting back to basic things, to simple things," Mr. LeWitt sayd.

The New York Times - Arts

He needs to get back to basics.

The New York Times

"We got back to basics".

The New York Times - Sports

"We have to get back to basics".

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When facing complex challenges, consider "getting back to basics" by reassessing fundamental principles and simplifying strategies to regain clarity and effectiveness.

Common error

Avoid using sophisticated jargon when advocating for "getting back to basics". Instead, communicate clearly and directly to emphasize the simplicity and accessibility of the core principles.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "getting back to basics" functions as a noun phrase, often used as a subject complement or object of a preposition. It describes the act of returning to fundamental principles or core ideas. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Formal & Business

20%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Science

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "getting back to basics" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that signifies a return to fundamental principles. Ludwig AI validates its correct usage. It is commonly found in news and media, business, and academic contexts, advocating for simplification and a focus on core elements. When using this phrase, ensure clear communication and avoid unnecessary jargon to effectively convey the message of simplicity and accessibility. Consider alternatives like "returning to fundamentals" or "simplifying the approach" to add variety to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

returning to fundamentals

Emphasizes the act of going back to the core elements or principles of something.

reverting to core principles

Highlights a shift back to the essential guiding beliefs or standards.

simplifying the approach

Focuses on making a method or strategy less complex and more straightforward.

refocusing on essentials

Stresses the act of redirecting attention to the most important aspects.

returning to the source

Suggests going back to the original point of origin or beginning.

re-establishing foundations

Implies rebuilding or reinforcing the basic structure or support.

going back to square one

Indicates starting over from the very beginning, often after a failure.

stripping it down to its essence

Conveys removing all non-essential elements to reveal the core nature.

zeroing in on the fundamentals

Highlights focusing intensely on the basic or essential aspects.

retracing steps to the origin

Suggests revisiting the initial stages or conditions of a process.

FAQs

How can I use "getting back to basics" in a sentence?

You can use "getting back to basics" to describe a return to fundamental principles or practices. For instance, "The company is "getting back to basics" by focusing on its core products and services".

What are some alternatives to saying "getting back to basics"?

Alternatives include "returning to fundamentals", "reverting to core principles", or "simplifying the approach", depending on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "getting back to basics"?

It's appropriate when you want to emphasize a return to fundamental principles, often in response to complexity or inefficiency. It suggests a need to simplify and refocus efforts on what is most important.

What does "getting back to basics" imply in a business context?

In business, "getting back to basics" often means focusing on core competencies, streamlining operations, and prioritizing customer needs. It suggests a move away from complex strategies towards simpler, more effective approaches.