on a firm foundation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "on a firm foundation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is based on solid principles or reliable support. Example: "The company's success is built on a firm foundation of trust and integrity."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

32 human-written examples

Thus the development of the new inequalities often puts on a firm foundation the heuristic technique one uses in the applied sciences.

Journal of Inequalities and Applications

But we have established an institution on a firm foundation.

The New York Times - Arts

We want the new treaty to work in stabilising the euro and putting it on a firm foundation.

The Economist

It's hard getting anything started, and Paul did a great job of establishing us on a firm foundation.

Princeton University

Philosophy long sought to set knowledge on a firm foundation, through derivation of indubitable truths by infallible rules.

Princeton University

Walter Mourad wants vengeance against Osama bin Laden for messing with an American dream built on a firm foundation of dry cleaning.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

28 human-written examples

Modern customer experience is an inverted pyramid that is resting on a shaky base instead of a firm foundation.

Forbes

But first they need to focus on establishing a firm foundation for what is real right now.

Huffington Post

Use of reporting guidelines such as the CONSORT and CONSORT-EHEALTH statements should promote greater emphasis on methodological rigour, providing a firm foundation for the further development of clinical VR applications.

Clinical Psychology Review

Carrie Bishop at FutureGov agreed that it was an impressive soft launch, and she said, "Involving the developer community is smart and as long as views are genuinely taken on board it will create a firm foundation". To help push the project further, she said the project needs to highlight developers using the "data to do cool stuff that meets a need".

The Guardian

You have to have a firm foundation on the moon to go to Mars.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "on a firm foundation" to emphasize the stability and reliability of a concept, project, or relationship. For example, you might say, "The company's success is built on a firm foundation of customer trust."

Common error

Avoid using "on a firm foundation" in contexts where literal physical foundations are more appropriate. For instance, don't say, "The house was built on a firm foundation of dreams" if you mean to discuss its actual structural base.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on a firm foundation" primarily functions as a prepositional phrase that modifies a verb or noun. It describes the manner in which something is established or based, emphasizing stability and reliability. Ludwig AI validates this usage across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

30%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "on a firm foundation" is a prepositional phrase that signifies stability, reliability, and a well-established base. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and commonly used in various contexts, including news, science, and academia. While alternatives like "on solid ground" or "on a sound basis" exist, "on a firm foundation" effectively conveys the idea of something built to last and succeed. Remember to avoid using it in contexts where a literal physical foundation is needed. The phrase's neutral register makes it appropriate for both formal and informal communication, ensuring its versatility in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

on solid ground

Emphasizes stability and security, often used in financial or emotional contexts.

on a sound basis

Highlights the logical and well-reasoned nature of the foundation.

on a stable footing

Focuses on balance and resilience, suitable for situations involving potential challenges.

securely established

Indicates that something is firmly in place and unlikely to be moved or changed.

firmly rooted

Suggests a deep and enduring connection or origin.

well-founded

Highlights the presence of strong justification and evidence.

built to last

Conveys the idea of durability and long-term reliability.

on bedrock principles

Implies adherence to fundamental and unshakeable beliefs.

with a robust infrastructure

Emphasizes the presence of a strong and well-developed support system.

based on reliable data

Focuses on the accuracy and trustworthiness of the information used as a basis.

FAQs

How can I use "on a firm foundation" in a sentence?

You can use "on a firm foundation" to describe something that is built upon strong principles or reliable support. For example: "The project's success relies on a firm foundation of teamwork and dedication."

What are some alternatives to "on a firm foundation"?

Alternatives include "on solid ground", "on a sound basis", or "securely established", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "on a firmer foundation" instead of "on a firm foundation"?

Yes, "on a firmer foundation" is correct and implies a stronger or more stable base than before. It suggests an improvement in the existing foundation.

What is the difference between "on a firm foundation" and "on a strong foundation"?

While both phrases are similar, "on a firm foundation" often suggests reliability and stability, whereas "on a strong foundation" emphasizes power and resilience. The choice depends on the aspect you want to highlight.