material basis

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "material basis" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts discussing the foundational or physical aspects of a concept, theory, or phenomenon. Example: "The material basis of the theory is essential for understanding its practical applications."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A previous version of this piece incorrectly described the material basis of Jang's photographs.

The New Yorker

These measures provided the material basis for the charges of tyranny later brought against him.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Finally, paper formed the material basis for the Islamic art form best known in the West, miniature painting.

The New York Times - Books

This approach provides H2 yield up to 9.5 wt% on material basis.

International Journal of Hydrogen Energy

This book provides a much-needed evolutionary context for examining the origin and material basis of sentience and consciousness.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Silicon chips form the material basis of our current information technologies and comprise the vast majority of electronic circuits.

Stanford University

That is, if you investigate the material basis of religious belief, you immediately confront a phenomenon that operates on many different levels.

The Guardian - Opinion

"I learned that very little of a material basis is necessary," said Ms. Olds, recalling the outdoor balcony she lived on in Badel.

The New York Times

On the basis of this ladderlike conception were built systems of rising transcendency, starting from a material basis and rising to a spiritual pinnacle.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In so doing, by the mid-eighteenth century the Qing state shifted the material basis of politics from talk to text, and from story to document.

University of California, Berkeley

He shows how the material basis of literature and the technology of its production affected the substance and diffusion of ideas.

Harvard University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "material basis", ensure you're referring to the concrete or physical foundation of an idea, theory, or phenomenon. Avoid using it metaphorically if a more precise term is available.

Common error

Avoid using "material basis" when discussing purely abstract or conceptual ideas that lack a tangible, physical component. Opt for terms like "conceptual foundation" or "theoretical underpinning" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "material basis" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as a subject complement or object of a preposition. Ludwig AI's analysis confirms its role in identifying the foundational substance or tangible element of a concept or system.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

41%

News & Media

29%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

9%

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "material basis" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed noun phrase that signifies the tangible or physical foundation of a concept or system. As Ludwig AI points out, it's commonly found in scientific, academic, and journalistic contexts to ground abstract ideas in reality. While versatile, it's best reserved for discussions where concrete elements are central, avoiding overuse in purely abstract scenarios. Consider alternatives like "physical foundation" or "tangible basis" for nuanced expression. Overall, understanding the appropriate use of "material basis" enhances clarity and precision in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

physical foundation

Focuses on the tangible and physical aspects of the foundation.

tangible foundation

Emphasizes the concrete and perceptible nature of the foundation.

substantial groundwork

Highlights the solid and significant nature of the base.

concrete groundwork

Highlights the physical and real nature of the groundwork.

factual substructure

Emphasizes the factual and structural elements.

real underpinnings

Focuses on the genuine and fundamental supporting factors.

practical source

Highlights the pragmatic and originating aspect.

actual source

Highlights the concrete and originating aspect.

genuine understructure

Emphasizes the authentic and structural supporting elements.

objective infrastructure

Focuses on the unbiased and structural elements that support something.

FAQs

How can I use "material basis" in a sentence?

You can use "material basis" to describe the concrete foundation or physical substance upon which something is built or based. For example: "Silicon chips form the "material basis" of our current information technologies".

What are some alternatives to "material basis"?

Alternatives include "physical foundation", "tangible basis", or "substantial groundwork", depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "material basis" in philosophical discussions?

Yes, "material basis" is appropriate in philosophical discussions when referring to the tangible or physical elements that underlie abstract concepts or theories. However, ensure that the context warrants a focus on the concrete aspects rather than purely conceptual ones.

What's the difference between "material basis" and "theoretical basis"?

"Material basis" refers to the concrete or physical foundation, while "theoretical basis" refers to the conceptual or abstract foundation. Use "material basis" when the focus is on tangible elements and "theoretical basis" when the focus is on ideas or principles.