Definition

1. Noun (plural of basis):

   • Foundations or underlying principles: "bases" refers to the fundamental ideas, facts, or principles that support something.

     • The bases of her argument were flawed. (The fundamental premises were incorrect.)
   • Physical foundations or supports: "bases" can mean the bottom parts of objects that provide stability.

     • The bases of the statues were carved from marble. (The supporting pedestals were marble.)

2. Noun (plural of base):

   • Military or operational centres: "bases" are locations used for military operations, research, or other activities.

     • The army established several bases near the border. (Military camps or headquarters.)
   • Main ingredients or components: In chemistry or cooking, "bases" are primary substances that other things are added to.

     • The bases of the sauce are tomatoes and garlic. (The core ingredients.)

Usage Examples

• Noun (plural of basis):

  • The theory rests on shaky bases. (The foundations are unreliable.)
  • We need to examine the legal bases for this decision. (The legal principles.)

• Noun (plural of base):

  • The company has manufacturing bases in three countries. (Operational locations.)
  • The bases of the columns were decorated with gold leaf. (The bottom supports.)

Advanced Usage

• "on a case-by-case basis": considering each situation individually.

  • Applications are reviewed on a case-by-case basis. (Each application is examined separately.)

• "to cover all bases": to prepare for every possible outcome.

  • We have covered all bases in our security plan. (We have addressed every potential issue.)

Variants and Related Words

• Basic (adj): forming an essential foundation or starting point.

  • These are the basic rules of the game. (The fundamental rules.)

• Baseless (adj): without foundation or support.

  • The accusations were baseless. (The accusations had no evidence.)

Synonyms

• Foundations: the underlying support or basis of something.
• Premises: a proposition or statement that serves as a basis for an argument.
• Headquarters: the main offices or centres of operation.

Phrasal Verbs

• Base on: to use something as a foundation for an idea or action.

  • The movie is based on a true story. (The movie is founded on a real event.)

• Base off: to derive inspiration or material from something.

  • The design was based off ancient patterns. (The design was inspired by ancient patterns.)

Related Idioms

• Touch base: to make contact or communicate briefly.

  • Let's touch base next week to discuss the project. (Let's briefly communicate.)

• Off base: incorrect or mistaken.

  • His estimate was way off base. (His estimate was very wrong.)