What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
fundament
Example
The fundament of democracy is the principle of popular sovereignty. [fundament: noun]
Example
The fundament of good writing is clear and concise language. [fundament: noun]
base
Example
The base of the statue was made of marble. [base: noun]
Example
We need to establish a base of knowledge before we can delve deeper into the subject. [base: noun]
Example
The theory is based on the principle of cause and effect. [based: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Base is more commonly used than fundament in everyday language. Base is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while fundament is less common and may be more appropriate for formal or academic writing.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between fundament and base?
Fundament may sound more formal or academic than base, which can be used in both formal and informal contexts.