serving as a base

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "serving as a base" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that functions as a foundation or starting point for further development or action. Example: "The research findings are serving as a base for the new project proposal that aims to improve community health."

✓ Grammatically correct

General Use

Military/Political Contexts

Technical/Scientific Explanations

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

25 human-written examples

For the excellent physical properties of organolead trihalide perovskites, with CH3NH3PbI3 films serving as a base layer, a bipolar heterojunction phototransistor-type perovskite photodetector is proposed.

Organic Electronics

This research provides new insight into the use of coastal shape to predict species distributions and other coastal processes, serving as a base for future studies.

Ecological Indicators

I also enjoyed the nuggets of bacon in the sour cream-mashed potatoes serving as a base to a stuffed pork chop.

The New York Times

It flourished in early Muslim times (7th century), serving as a base for Islamization, and was surrounded by strong fortifications by Hārūn al-Rashīd.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The temple usually stands upon a lofty terraced plinth (a block serving as a base), which itself also symbolized a mountain.

Encyclopedia Britannica

But Zambians were told that sacrifice was necessary, the price the nation paid for serving as a base for the guerrillas in their struggle for majority rule.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

35 human-written examples

He coached football and served as a base dentist.

The New York Times - Sports

It serves as a base for Mr Modi's ambitions.

The Economist

It also serves as a base of interactive product customization.

Computers in Industry

A female acrobat serves as a base for a man standing on her shoulders.

The New York Times

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

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "serving as a base", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being supported or what is developing from that base. Clarity is key to effective communication.

Common error

Avoid using "serving as a base" in overly complex sentences where it can obscure the main point. Sometimes, a simpler verb like "being" or "forming" can make the sentence more direct and easier to understand.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "serving as a base" functions as a present participial phrase, modifying a noun or pronoun by describing its role or function. Ludwig provides numerous examples where it clarifies the supportive or foundational nature of something.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Academia

7%

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "serving as a base" is a versatile expression used to describe the foundational role of something. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability across diverse contexts, from scientific research to political analysis. While common, it's essential to ensure clarity and avoid overuse in overly complex sentences. Alternatives like "acting as a basis" or "functioning as a foundation" can offer nuanced variations depending on the specific context. Ludwig's analysis of authoritative sources indicates that "serving as a base" frequently appears in news, science, and encyclopedia contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

functioning as a foundation

Replaces "serving" with "functioning" and "base" with "foundation", emphasizing the role of providing support.

acting as a basis

Uses "acting" instead of "serving" and "basis" for "base", highlighting the role of something being the starting point.

providing a foundation

Focuses on the action of providing a base rather than the state of being one.

forming the groundwork

Emphasizes the initial stages of something being built or developed.

laying the foundation

Similar to 'forming the groundwork' but stresses the act of establishing a base.

underpinning

A more concise, single-word alternative that means to support or form the basis of.

constituting the bedrock

Uses "bedrock" to suggest a solid and fundamental base.

being the groundwork

Highlights its function as groundwork rather than the act of serving.

supplying a foundation

Similar to 'providing a foundation', but suggests more active support.

giving a starting point

Focuses on the aspect of providing an initial position or opportunity.

FAQs

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

"Serving as a base" is used to describe something that provides a foundation or starting point for something else. For example, "The initial research is serving as a base for the subsequent studies".

What are some alternatives to "serving as a base"?

Alternatives to "serving as a base" include "acting as a basis", "functioning as a foundation", or "providing a foundation".

Is it better to say "serving as a base" or "acting as a base"?

Both "serving as a base" and "acting as a base" are grammatically correct and have similar meanings. The choice depends on the specific context and desired emphasis.

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

"Serving as a base" describes the function something performs, while "providing a base" emphasizes the action of giving or supplying that foundation.