the foundation on which

USAGE SUMMARY

"the foundation on which" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is commonly used to introduce a dependent clause that explains the basis or reasoning behind something. Here is an example: "The foundation on which their friendship was built was a shared love for music."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They are the foundation on which all else must stand.

The Economist

It is the foundation on which our prosperity is built.

The New York Times

This is the foundation on which the N.B.A. was built.

The New York Times - Sports

Recruitment is the foundation on which Harvard's excellence rests.

Harvard University

The foundation on which my good ideas will be built.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

It's the foundation on which we can build a better society.

Independent

Soil is the foundation on which the house of terrestrial biodiversity is built.

The New York Times

Consequently, the foundation on which to reconstruct his oeuvre is very narrow.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Both devices changed the world, though (Shockley's was the foundation on which IT was built).

The Economist

But it remains the foundation on which the rest is built.

The Economist

Soil is the foundation on which the house of terrestrial biodiversity _____ built.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "the foundation on which", ensure that the subsequent clause clearly and specifically explains what is built upon this foundation. This enhances clarity and strengthens the connection between the base and the resulting structure or idea.

Common error

Avoid using "the foundation on which" when the relationship between the foundation and what it supports is vague or poorly defined. This can lead to confusion and weaken your argument. Make sure it's used on something that can be built on it.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the foundation on which" functions as a prepositional phrase that introduces a relative clause. This clause typically specifies the basis, principle, or groundwork upon which something else is established or developed. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Science

27%

Academia

18%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

6%

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the foundation on which" is a grammatically correct and versatile phrase used to introduce a fundamental base or rationale for something. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its validity and widespread application. Its frequent occurrence in News & Media, Science, and Academic writing indicates its relevance across diverse registers. While alternatives like "the basis on which" exist, "the foundation on which" effectively highlights the crucial supporting role of the base in question. Remember to ensure a clear connection between the foundation and what is built upon it for optimal clarity and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the basis on which

Replaces "foundation" with "basis", emphasizing the underlying support or reason.

the base on which

Uses "base" instead of "foundation", focusing on the supporting structure or starting point.

the groundwork on which

Substitutes "foundation" with "groundwork", highlighting the preparatory or initial stages.

the cornerstone of

Implies that the QUERY is a critical factor in making a thing real.

the underlying principle of

Focuses on the fundamental idea or rule that something is based on.

the supporting structure for

Highlights the role of providing support.

the rationale behind

Focuses more on the logical reasons or justification.

the premise of

Focuses on the validity of previous arguments.

the justification for

Focuses on reasons and arguments put forward to defend a belief.

the underpinnings of

Replaces "foundation" with "underpinnings", which refers to the basic elements or parts on which something depends.

FAQs

How can I use "the foundation on which" in a sentence?

Use "the foundation on which" to introduce the basis for something. For example, "Trust is the foundation on which strong relationships are built."

What are some alternatives to "the foundation on which"?

You can use alternatives like "the basis on which", "the groundwork on which", or "the base on which" depending on the context.

Is it better to use "the foundation on which" or "the basis on which"?

Both "the foundation on which" and "the basis on which" are correct and largely interchangeable. The choice depends on the nuance you want to convey, with "foundation" emphasizing a more structural support and "basis" focusing on underlying reasons.

What does "the foundation on which" imply?

The phrase "the foundation on which" implies that something serves as a fundamental base or starting point that supports further development or existence. It highlights the critical role of this base in enabling subsequent structures or ideas.