is at the base of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is at the base of" is a valid phrase in written English.
This phrase is typically used to indicate the origin or foundation of something, or to describe the underlying cause of something. For example: "The need for understanding and tolerance is at the base of all successful relationships."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"Communication is at the base of good coaching".

The New York Times

It is at the base of Durango Mountain Resort.

The New York Times

"How can I help" is at the base of all good relationships.

Harvard University

The peloton is at the base of the climb, around 8km and 12 minutes adrift.

The Guardian - Sport

As Mr. O'Hara puts it, his modest operation is "at the base" of the mining pyramid.

The New York Times

The park is at the base of densely forested hills in an isolated part of Thailand.

The Guardian - Travel

The restaurant is at the base of the towering new Mondrian hotel in SoHo.

The New York Times - Food

Myosin-driven contraction of the actin cytoskeleton is at the base of cell and tissue morphogenesis.

Current Opinion in Cell Biology

Lay a long strut between every pair of almost-vertical struts: that is, at the base of the triangles.

Stanford University

By starlight The Hollywood Bowl, 2301 North Highland Avenue, is at the base of the 101 Freeway.

The New York Times - Travel

Classical footwork is at the base of his choreography no matter how lighthearted his images are in this premiere.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "is at the base of", ensure that you clearly identify both the foundation and what it supports. This clarifies the relationship and strengthens your argument. For example: "Trust is at the base of any strong relationship."

Common error

Avoid using abstract nouns as the subject when it obscures the core meaning. Instead of saying "Understanding is at the base of progress", be more direct: "Progress depends on understanding".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is at the base of" functions as a prepositional phrase that modifies a noun or clause. It indicates that something serves as the underlying foundation, origin, or essential element upon which something else depends. This is supported by Ludwig examples where the phrase connects a core principle to a resulting outcome or structure.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Science

33%

Academia

13%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is at the base of" effectively conveys the idea that something is fundamental or foundational to something else. Ludwig AI confirms that it's grammatically correct and widely used, evidenced by its presence in numerous examples from diverse sources. While alternatives like "underlies" or ""is fundamental to"" exist, "is at the base of" provides a clear and direct way to emphasize the underlying cause or origin. When using this phrase, clarity and specificity are key to conveying the intended meaning effectively. Remember to avoid overusing abstract nouns to maintain clear communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is the foundation of

This alternative directly refers to something providing a base or support.

forms the basis of

This alternative indicates that something provides a starting point for development.

is the bedrock of

This alternative suggests a strong, stable foundation.

underlies

This alternative is a single verb that emphasizes the fundamental importance of something.

is fundamental to

This alternative emphasizes the essential nature of something.

is rooted in

This alternative implies that something grows or originates from something else.

is the origin of

This alternative focuses on the source or beginning of something.

is the source of

This alternative highlights where something comes from.

is the starting point for

This alternative emphasizes the commencement or initiation of something.

is the groundwork for

This alternative suggests preparatory work or initial stages.

FAQs

What does "is at the base of" mean?

The phrase "is at the base of" signifies that something is the foundation, origin, or underlying cause of something else. It suggests a fundamental relationship where one thing supports or gives rise to another.

How can I use "is at the base of" in a sentence?

Use "is at the base of" to indicate the essential element or principle upon which something is built or depends. For example: "Communication is at the base of all good relationships".

What can I say instead of "is at the base of"?

You can use alternatives like "underlies", "is fundamental to", or "is the foundation of" depending on the context.

Is there a subtle difference in meaning between "is at the base of" and ""is the foundation of""?

While similar, "is at the base of" can imply a broader sense of origin or cause, whereas ""is the foundation of"" more directly suggests a structure or system built upon something solid.