this is basic

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "this is basic" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that something is simple or fundamental, often in a context where you want to emphasize the simplicity of a concept or task. Example: "When it comes to understanding the principles of physics, this is basic; everyone should grasp these foundational ideas."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

This is basic stuff.

The Economist

"This is basic transparency".

The New York Times

This is basic survival".

The Guardian

This is basic, fundamental football.

The New Yorker

This is basic.

The New York Times

This is basic to civilisation".

The Guardian

"This is basic outbreak investigation 101.

The New York Times

Some of this is basic logic.

The New Yorker

This is basic investment in their resilience.

The New York Times

This is basic and essential advice.

The Guardian

This is basic to municipal labor relations.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "this is basic" to underscore the simplicity or foundational nature of a concept, especially when explaining it to someone unfamiliar with the topic. For instance, when teaching someone to code, you might say: "Understanding variables – this is basic – is the first step."

Common error

Avoid using "this is basic" in a way that suggests the listener should already know the information, as it can come across as condescending. Instead, present the information matter-of-factly or offer it as a helpful reminder.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "this is basic" primarily functions as a declarative statement used to emphasize the simplicity or foundational nature of a concept. As shown by Ludwig, this is used across multiple domains.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Science

18%

Formal & Business

14%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "this is basic" is a very common phrase used to convey that something is simple, fundamental, or easily understood. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use across various contexts, mainly in News & Media. While its use is generally neutral, consider the context and audience to prevent any perception of condescension. Alternatives include "this is elementary" or "this is fundamental", which can add a touch of formality when needed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

this is elementary

Replaces "basic" with a synonym, suggesting something is easily learned or understood.

this is fundamental

Emphasizes the foundational nature of something, highlighting its importance as a basis for further understanding.

this is essential

Stresses the necessity of something, indicating it is indispensable or crucial.

this is rudimentary

Implies something is at an initial stage of development or learning.

this is straightforward

Focuses on the simplicity and ease of understanding something.

this is simple

Indicates a lack of complexity or difficulty.

this is common knowledge

Suggests something is widely known and accepted.

this is a given

Implies something is assumed or understood without needing to be stated.

this is standard practice

Highlights that something is a customary or accepted way of doing something.

this is the bare minimum

Indicates something is the least that is required or expected.

FAQs

How can I use "this is basic" in a sentence?

You can use "this is basic" to point out the fundamental nature of a concept. For example: "Understanding supply and demand – "this is basic" economics."

What are some alternatives to "this is basic"?

Alternatives include "this is elementary", "this is fundamental", or "this is essential", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "this is basic" in formal writing?

While "this is basic" is generally acceptable, it may be more appropriate to use a more formal alternative like "this is fundamental" in highly formal contexts.

When is it not a good idea to use the phrase "this is basic"?

Avoid using "this is basic" if you want to avoid sounding condescending or dismissive. In such cases, opt for neutral language like "this is simple" or "this is common knowledge".