foundation
Definition of "foundation" in level:
The foundation is the solid base upon which a building or structure is constructed to support its weight. It is also used metaphorically to describe the fundamental principles, ideas, or base layer upon which something else is built or developed.
A foundation is the essential base that provides the necessary support for everything built upon it.
30秒でわかる単語
- The solid base supporting a building or structure.
- The fundamental principles or basis of an idea.
- An organization established to provide funding for specific causes.
Summary
A foundation is the essential base that provides the necessary support for everything built upon it.
- The solid base supporting a building or structure.
- The fundamental principles or basis of an idea.
- An organization established to provide funding for specific causes.
Use with strong verbs for impact
Pair 'foundation' with verbs like 'solid,' 'strong,' or 'firm' to emphasize stability. For example, 'We need to build a firm foundation for our project.'
Don't confuse with 'founding'
Remember that 'founding' refers to the act of starting an organization. 'Foundation' is the result or the base itself.
Philanthropic foundations
In Western culture, many large charities are called 'foundations.' They are often established by wealthy individuals to support social or scientific goals.
例文
2 / 2The house was built on a very solid foundation.
Trust is the foundation of any successful relationship.
語族
覚え方のコツ
Think of a house: if the foundation is weak, the house falls. Just like your knowledge, if the basics are weak, you cannot learn advanced topics.
Overview
'Foundation' refers to the physical support structure of a building, but it has evolved into a versatile term for the underlying basis of systems, organizations, or personal knowledge. Whether physical or abstract, it represents the essential starting point that provides stability.
Usage Patterns
In physical contexts, we talk about 'laying' or 'building' a foundation. In abstract contexts, such as education or business, we often use it to describe the 'foundation of a theory' or 'laying the foundation for success.' It is frequently used with verbs like 'build,' 'establish,' 'strengthen,' or 'undermine.'
Common Contexts
You will encounter this word in construction (the concrete base of a house), in education (the basics of a subject), in business (the principles of a company), and in philanthropy (an organization established to provide money for a particular cause, like a charitable foundation).
Similar Words Comparison
'Base' is more general and can refer to the bottom of any object. 'Basis' is almost exclusively abstract, used for arguments or ideas. 'Foundation' carries a stronger connotation of structural integrity and long-term support compared to these alternatives.
使い方のコツ
Foundation is a neutral word used in both formal and informal contexts. It is highly common in professional settings, particularly when discussing strategy or development. Ensure you use it to imply something is essential or structural.
よくある間違い
People sometimes use 'base' when they want to sound more professional, but 'foundation' is often the better choice for abstract concepts. Avoid using 'foundation' for simple physical bottoms, like the bottom of a box; 'bottom' is better there.
覚え方のコツ
Think of a house: if the foundation is weak, the house falls. Just like your knowledge, if the basics are weak, you cannot learn advanced topics.
語源
Derived from the Latin 'fundatio,' meaning 'a laying of a foundation.' It comes from the verb 'fundare,' meaning 'to lay the bottom of.'
文化的な背景
In many countries, the term 'foundation' is synonymous with major non-profit organizations. It implies a long-term commitment to a social cause.
例文
The house was built on a very solid foundation.
everydayTrust is the foundation of any successful relationship.
formal語族
よく使う組み合わせ
よく使うフレーズ
lay the foundations
foundation course
よく混同される語
Basis is used for abstract concepts, logic, or arguments. Foundation is used for physical structures and metaphorical support.
文法パターン
Use with strong verbs for impact
Pair 'foundation' with verbs like 'solid,' 'strong,' or 'firm' to emphasize stability. For example, 'We need to build a firm foundation for our project.'
Don't confuse with 'founding'
Remember that 'founding' refers to the act of starting an organization. 'Foundation' is the result or the base itself.
Philanthropic foundations
In Western culture, many large charities are called 'foundations.' They are often established by wealthy individuals to support social or scientific goals.
自分をテスト
Choose the correct word to complete the sentence.
A good education provides a strong ___ for your future career.
Foundation is the standard term for the underlying support for a career or life goal.
スコア： /1
よくある質問
3 問No, it is widely used in abstract contexts. You can have a foundation of knowledge or a foundation for a future career.
A foundation is usually more structural or literal, while a basis refers more to the underlying logic or evidence of an argument or theory.
Metaphorically, yes. You might say someone is the foundation of a family, meaning they provide the essential support that keeps everyone together.
