What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
substratum
Example
The substratum of the painting was revealed after removing the layers of varnish. [substratum: noun]
Example
The substratum of the company's success is its dedicated employees. [substratum: noun]
foundation
Example
The foundation of the house was reinforced to prevent further damage. [foundation: noun]
Example
The foundation of the company's mission is to provide affordable and accessible healthcare. [foundation: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Foundation is more commonly used than substratum in everyday language. Foundation is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while substratum is less common and more technical, often used in specific fields such as geology or linguistics.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between substratum and foundation?
Substratum is typically associated with a more technical and formal tone, while foundation can be used in both formal and informal contexts.