set up base

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "set up base" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is often used in military contexts to refer to the establishment of a headquarters or encampment. For example, you could use it in a sentence like this: "The soldiers were sent to the area to set up base."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

53 human-written examples

Set up base at Praia do Toque and walk the sands nearby.

The Guardian - Travel

And Indian information technology majors have already set up base there or bought controlling stakes in local companies.

Forbes

Observers returned to the city yesterday afternoon and two will set up base there.

Independent

You set up base camp then camp one, two and so on.

The Guardian - Sport

The insurgents have set up base camps and stockpiled weapons in the surrounding countryside and desert, Maj.

The Washington Post

CHEAT SHEET Where to Set Up Base Midtown is close to everything but is crowded and expensive.

The New York Times - Travel

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

7 human-written examples

A community-based physiotherapy lead group exercise program was set up based on successful exercise interventions [ 25, 26].

BMC Geriatrics

A thermal model for the μDMFC is set up based on heat transfer and emission mechanisms.

Journal of Power Sources

The experiments are set up based on multi-index orthogonal design.

Measurement

Others had set up bases in refugee camps and villages in the Leb anese hinterland, he said.

The New York Times

Performance functions are set up based on displacement ductility and maximum strain limit-states for reliability estimation.

Structural Safety

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "set up base", clearly define the purpose and scope of the base being established to provide context for your audience.

Common error

Avoid using "set up base" when referring to very short-term or impromptu arrangements; phrases like "set up camp" might be more appropriate in those contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "set up base" functions as a phrasal verb, where "set up" is the verb and "base" acts as a noun complement. It describes the action of establishing a location for operations. Ludwig examples show its usage across diverse fields.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Academia

10%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Science

4%

Huffington Post

4%

Vice

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "set up base" is a commonly used and grammatically sound phrasal verb that denotes establishing a location for operations. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and widespread use across various contexts, particularly in news and media. While it holds a neutral register, understanding its nuances and differentiating it from similar phrases like "set up camp" can enhance writing precision. Therefore, it's a valuable phrase to have in one's vocabulary for describing planned and deliberate establishment of a location.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

establish headquarters

Focuses more on the formal establishment of an administrative center.

create a foothold

Implies securing an initial position for further advancement.

establish a presence

Highlights making one's existence known and felt in a particular area.

set up camp

More informal, often used in temporary or outdoors situations.

build a foundation

Emphasizes creating a stable and lasting groundwork.

form a settlement

Suggests establishing a permanent community or colony.

institute a center

Highlights creating a hub for specific activities or services.

organize a station

Focuses on setting up a point for specific tasks or monitoring.

develop a hub

Implies creating a central point for connectivity and activities.

arrange a location

Simply setting up a place, without implying much additional infrastructure.

FAQs

How can I use "set up base" in a sentence?

You can use "set up base" to describe establishing a headquarters or location for operations, as in "The research team decided to "set up base" near the archaeological site".

What are some alternatives to "set up base"?

Alternatives include "establish headquarters", "create a foothold", or "establish a presence", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "set up base" in a formal context?

Yes, "set up base" is acceptable in formal contexts, particularly when discussing military, scientific, or organizational operations. More formal alternatives like "establish headquarters" may be preferred in some situations.

What's the difference between "set up base" and "set up camp"?

"Set up base" typically implies a more organized and potentially longer-term establishment, while "set up camp" suggests a temporary or more rudimentary arrangement.