sound foundation

USAGE SUMMARY

"sound foundation" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when referring to something that has a reliable base or strong foundation. For example: We need to build a sound foundation for our business if we want it to last.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We want a sound foundation for change.

The New York Times

Chair EMI Music Sound Foundation and EMI Archive Trust.

The Guardian

But it has provided a sound foundation, and takes away the excuse of ignorance.

The New York Times

It was "a milestone success and sets a sound foundation for continued missions", Wu said.

The Guardian

To improve things everyone should have a sound foundation in geriatrics – because the majority of our patients are elderly.

The Guardian

Technology becomes obsolete.... Brand loyalty is the only sound foundation on which business leaders can build enduring profitable growth".

The New Yorker

Some of this was due to the sound foundation his predecessors left him and to low inflation worldwide.

The Economist

Farron's Labour 'land grab' lacks a sound foundation The Liberal Democrats do like to be beside the seaside.

Independent

If we don't find a way to build a sound foundation for growth, the American dream will survive only in our heads and history books.

The New York Times

Unusually sensitive to questions of rigour, Newton at a fairly early stage tried to establish his new method on a sound foundation using ideas from kinematics.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Franklin built a sound foundation for the postal service in the United States, and, fittingly, he became its first postmaster general in 1775.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing abstract concepts, use "sound foundation" to suggest a well-reasoned or empirically supported basis for an idea or theory.

Common error

While "sound foundation" is a versatile phrase, avoid using it excessively in casual conversation. Simpler terms like "good start" or "solid base" may be more appropriate for everyday contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sound foundation" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where "sound" acts as an adjective modifying the noun "foundation". It describes something that serves as a reliable and stable base for further development or construction, whether literal or figurative. Ludwig AI confirms this is a correct and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Wiki

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "sound foundation" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to describe something reliable and strong as a base for further development. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is widely accepted. Its usage spans various contexts, including news, science, and formal business settings, emphasizing its versatility. While alternatives like "solid base" or "firm basis" exist, "sound foundation" distinctly conveys a sense of well-reasoned and empirically supported strength. While very versatile, remember that it might sound odd in really informal conversation. The high frequency of examples from reputable sources like The New York Times and The Guardian underscores its established presence in formal English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

solid base

Focuses on the robustness and reliability of the base or starting point.

firm basis

Highlights the stability and dependability of the underlying principles or facts.

strong footing

Emphasizes the security and stability of the current position or situation.

secure foundation

Stresses the safety and reliability of the base, implying protection from future problems.

reliable groundwork

Focuses on the dependability and preparation provided by the initial work.

stable platform

Highlights the steadiness and support offered for further development or action.

robust infrastructure

Emphasizes the strength and resilience of the supporting systems and structures.

dependable bedrock

Stresses the fundamental and trustworthy nature of the underlying support.

lasting framework

Focuses on the enduring and supportive nature of the established structure.

resilient substructure

Highlights the ability of the underlying structure to withstand challenges and remain strong.

FAQs

How can I use "sound foundation" in a sentence?

You can use "sound foundation" to describe something that provides a strong and reliable base for future development, such as "a "sound foundation" for economic growth" or "a "sound foundation" for a successful career".

What are some alternatives to "sound foundation"?

Some alternatives to "sound foundation" include "solid base", "firm basis", or "strong footing", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "sound foundation" or "solid foundation"?

"Sound foundation" and "solid foundation" are often interchangeable. However, "sound foundation" may subtly emphasize reliability and judgment, while "solid foundation" highlights physical strength and stability.

In what contexts is "sound foundation" most appropriate?

"Sound foundation" is suitable for formal writing, business contexts, and academic discussions where a sense of reliability and well-reasoned support is crucial. It emphasizes that something has been carefully built or developed.