serve as a base

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "serve as a base" is a correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It is generally used to indicate the role of an item as a platform in which to build up from. For example, "This recipe serves as a base for further experimentation in the kitchen."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Carrying helicopters, they can serve as a base for airborne commando units.

The Guardian

North Africa would subsequently serve as a base for future Allied operations against Italy itself.

Encyclopedia Britannica

These structures serve as a base to construct efficient siRNA as well as DNA nanocarriers.

Journal of Drug Delivery Science and Technology

Six beam transducers are utilized to serve as a base of a hexapod structure.

Mechatronics

Our results can serve as a base for developments in designing nano-electronic devices.

Physica E: Low-dimensional Systems and Nanostructures

Jumia Group executives hope that Nigeria will serve as a base for the expansion of African e-commerce.

The New Yorker

Waffles also can serve as a base for savoury mixtures such as seafood or poultry in sauce.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Field offices serve as a base for the most effective get-out-the-vote tactics, like door-to-door canvassing.

The New York Times

Depending on its configuration, a space station can serve as a base for a variety of activities.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Information provided by these models can help in resource allocation and serve as a base for assessment and future improvements.

Journal of Systems and Software

The model will serve as a base of 3D multi-impact FE model for various incidence angles.

Surface and Coatings Technology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "serve as a base", ensure that the subsequent actions or developments logically follow from this foundation. This ensures clarity and strengthens the connection between the base and what it supports.

Common error

Avoid using "serve as a base" in contexts where the relationship between the base and what it supports is too abstract or unclear. Use more specific language to describe the role or function of the base instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "serve as a base" functions as a verb phrase indicating the role of something as a foundation or starting point. As noted by Ludwig AI, it's a correct and commonly used phrase to denote providing a foundation for subsequent actions or developments, as exemplified by sentences from the provided source.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

48%

News & Media

27%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

9%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "serve as a base" is a versatile and frequently used expression in English, indicating that something provides a foundation or starting point for further development. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and commonly employed across various contexts. The phrase is most prevalent in scientific and news-related domains. When writing, ensure a logical connection between the base and what it supports for optimal clarity. Consider alternative phrases such as "act as a platform" or "function as a foundation" to add variety to your writing. The consistent usage and clear meaning of "serve as a base" make it a reliable choice for conveying foundational support.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

act as a platform

Focuses on the role of providing a raised level or opportunity for action.

lay the foundation

Highlights the establishment of a secure or stable basis.

function as a foundation

Emphasizes the foundational aspect of providing support or structure.

form a bedrock

Emphasizes the fundamental and unyielding nature of the support.

constitute a starting point

Emphasizes the initiation or beginning of a process or development.

furnish a launching pad

Focuses on the initiation of a project or activity.

provide a groundwork

Stresses the preliminary or preparatory nature of the support.

operate as a hub

Highlights the central role in coordinating activities or resources.

offer a springboard

Highlights the propulsive aspect of enabling further advancement.

work as an infrastructure

Highlights the fundamental systems and facilities needed for an area to function.

FAQs

How can I use "serve as a base" in a sentence?

You can use "serve as a base" to indicate that something provides a foundation or starting point for something else. For example, "This research will "serve as a base" for future studies."

What can I say instead of "serve as a base"?

Alternatives to "serve as a base" include "act as a platform", "function as a foundation", or "constitute a starting point", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "serve as a base" or "act as a base"?

Both ""serve as a base"" and "act as a base" are grammatically correct and have similar meanings. The choice between them often depends on personal preference or stylistic considerations.

What's the difference between "serve as a base" and "serving as a basis"?

"Serve as a base" implies providing a physical or functional foundation, while "serving as a basis" suggests providing an underlying principle or rationale. The nuance depends on the context.